GWI rejects misinformation exploiting water issues for political gain

Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has strongly rejected recent claims made by the Alliance for Change (AFC) concerning the water supply situation in the Grand Sandroad community, located in Soesdyke.
GWI describes the assertions as misleading and believes they are an attempt by the political group to manipulate public perception for political gain. On Monday, GWI clarified that the Grand Sandroad area is private land, not part of any government-led housing development. The land is owned by private individuals, Basil Isaacs and Grant (only name given), and is leased to others. Therefore, any infrastructural development, including the provision of water, requires proper engagement with relevant stakeholders and adherence to due process. Contrary to the AFC’s claims, GWI said that it has already made significant strides in addressing the community’s water supply needs.
The company’s Executive Team, led by Shaik Baksh, conducted an assessment and installed a 4-inch transmission main to provide water to the residents. Currently, 39 legal customers are recorded in the system. GWI pointed out that any additional connections beyond this number, particularly among squatters, are unauthorized and illegal.
Further, GWI highlighted that over 100 households are located in the community, many of which are illegally connected to the water network. These unauthorized connections put a strain on the existing infrastructure, leading to inefficiencies in water distribution.
According to GWI it is actively working on expanding the water supply to more residents, particularly those situated atop the hills. However, such an expansion requires substantial investment, and as such, a feasibility study is currently underway to ensure that infrastructure improvements are sustainable and efficiently implemented.
GWI urged community leaders and residents to engage directly with GWI instead of relying on misinformation from those seeking to exploit the issue for political purposes.