…550 residents benefiting from improved access to water
A total of 550 persons residing in Capoey Village, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) have improved access to drinking water, following the commissioning of a $11 million water supply system.
The well component of the system, which is about 42 metres deep, was drilled by Guyana Water Inc’s newly-acquired 421T PAT Rig.
The scope of the project included the drilling of a new well; supply and installation of a distribution network and standpipes; installation of a solar panel; construction of a perimeter fence; installation of a submersible pump and well discharge and construction of a reinforced concrete base to support four 1000-gallon water tanks.
During the commissioning ceremony recently, Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues, disclosed that the water system was supplying 96 per cent of the village with treated water and was expected to serve the community for 100 years.
Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues drinking water from the new system
“All of the water that we distribute through the Guyana Water Inc is safe for consumption. It is WHO tested and we do test periodically… When you hear us talking about transformation and bridging the gap between the coast land and hinterland that’s what we are talking about, reducing inequality so that all of our citizens regardless of your race, your religion, your geographical location that you have access to services and you have access to infrastructure that will improve your lives,” Rodrigues stated.
Further, Rodrigues highlighted the employment opportunities the project generated for local residents and emphasised the need for community responsibility in maintaining the facility.
The well commissioning
On this point, she disclosed that GWI planned to train two Community Service Officers (CSOs) to assist in the upkeep of the new water supply system.
“This is infrastructure, this well that we drilled in this community that is now providing 96 per cent of this community with potable water; that is infrastructure spending… These young people have been doing a remarkable job and I am very proud of the young team from GWI. I am proud of the motivation and progress they have been making,” Rodrigues added.
The well commissioning
Since assuming office in August 2020, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government has drilled 75 wells, taking potable water supply in the hinterland from 46 per cent to 86 per cent by the end of 2023.
Through the 2024 Budget, another 40 wells will be drilled in Amerindian communities, as the PPP/C Government aims to achieve 100 per cent access to potable water for the hinterland by 2025.
Communities in Region Two set to benefit from enhanced water supply include Friendship, Mashabo, St Deny’s/Tapakuma Village, St Monica, Friendship, Dredge Creek, Baracaro, Bethany, and Wakapao.(G2)
