Proposal being considered for US$40M wastewater treatment plant

…as Govt looking to source water from aquifers, activate national water council

In light of record high temperatures and the potential threat to food security, the Government is rolling out a number of measures that include the use of smart technology, aquifers and a potential US$40 million wastewater treatment plant, to promote water conservation.
On Monday, the 32nd Annual Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) Conference and Exhibition got underway at the Marriott Hotel in Guyana. In his remarks at the event, Prime Minister, Retired Brigadier Mark Phillips noted that the conference is a timely one. He also told those gathered of how seriously the Government views water conservation and the strategies being considered in this regard.
“I believe our governments must commit to investing in modern water infrastructure and technology. This includes updating and expanding water treatment facilities, pipelines and distribution systems, to minimise losses due to leaks and ensure reliable access to clean water,” the Prime Minister said.
“It also involves incorporating smart monitoring and management systems, that can enhance efficiency and help in the early detection of water-related issues. In addition, sustainable practices like rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling should be encouraged to reduce the strain on fresh water sources.”

According to the Prime Minister, the overarching issue of climate change must also be addressed. Phillips noted that climate change and water shortages are inextricably linked, in particular since Guyana is currently feeling the effects of El Nino.
“The symbiotic relationship between climate change and water management, is undeniable. Climate change exacerbates the extreme weather patterns responsible for floods and droughts. Climate change threatens the livelihood and safety of countless communities worldwide.”
“It intensifies the depletion of water resources and endangers the water supply and the delicate balance of our ecosystems. These challenges can no longer be viewed in isolation,” the Prime Minister said, adding that the CWWA allows the Region to lead the way in coming up with strategies to mitigate these risks.

Water treatment plant
Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal meanwhile spoke of the amount of money Guyana has spent in water management. The Minister noted that inefficient wastewater treatment can harm both the environment and public health and said that the Government is considering a proposal for a wastewater facility that could cost US$40 million.
“Importantly, to further improve sanitation management, Guyana has expended over $2.1 billion in financing to Local Government organs to support their delivery of services to communities. Technical assistance has also been provided, in areas like onsite wastewater treatment, waste management, hand washing, drainage maintenance, procurement and organising clean-up campaigns and community outreaches.”
“We must invest in modern, eco-friendly wastewater treatment facilities to reduce pollution, safeguard the aquatic ecosystems and recycle water where possible. Currently, the estimated cost of constructing a wastewater treatment facility in Georgetown is approximately US$40 million and technical proposals are being pursued,” Minister Croal further said.

Aquifers
Also speaking to water conservation was Minister in the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues. She explained that a policy will be implemented that will include a national water council and the use of aquifers, underground structures that can provide potable water, are on the cards.
“One of the desired outcomes of this policy will be to activate a national water council. This institutional mechanism will provide a practical model for how the various sectors with responsibility for water use and control, can work harmoniously to protect, develop and sustain all water resources.”
“The policy framework also consists of a groundwater management plan for the coastal aquifers, which when implemented is expected to guarantee a reliable and affordable supply of potable water from ground water sources,” Rodrigues said.
According to Rodrigues, the aim is to increase water coverage from 52 per cent to 90 per cent by 2025. The Government also has plans for the construction of more water treatment plants and the rehabilitation of existing ones.
“The Government also intends to continue upgrade the infrastructure in the city of Georgetown by replacing aged transmission and distribution lines to ensure that service delivery is improved. At the policy level, we have drafted a number of strategies that will guide the framework governing water management and conservation.”
The CWWA is a regional Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) based in Trinidad & Tobago. It comprises of water, wastewater and solid waste professionals in the public and private sectors. This is the second time the conference is being hosted in Guyana. (G3)