Water woes of Glasgow New Housing Scheme residents to improve – Walrond

During a community engagement with Minister of Tourism, Industry, and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, residents of Glasgow New Housing Scheme in Greater New Amsterdam (Region Six: East Berbice-Corentyne), learned that efforts are currently underway by the Ministry of Housing and Water to expand treated water access across the coastal plain.
While some communities benefit from water treatment plants, others, like Glasgow New Housing Scheme, are still awaiting improvements. Minister Walrond told residents that relief is coming.
“We have purchased filters, and they are to be imported. So, they are on their way here. GWI has already started to do the work to install the filters, and by the end of the year, the system should be installed and functioning. So, the brown water woes should be over then,” she stated.

Residents have welcomed this initiative with optimism, as they look forward to improved water quality. Many were calling for better quality water, citing high iron content that affects daily activities such as drinking, cooking, and doing the laundry. Guyana’s water supply is naturally high in iron, making it difficult for consumption and household use. Residents say the issue has been a long-standing one.
“I’ve been living here for 10 years, and our water system is terrible; the rust is too much. And if you could help to give us better water, we’ll be grateful,” one resident shared.
Another resident, who has lived in the area for 11 years, echoed similar concerns by saying, “The water is very bad. All of my white clothes have been destroyed by the water. I love our neighbourhood, but the water alone is the problem.”
Meanwhile, Waldron told the gathering that the region has great potential for ecotourism development. She said Government is committed to expanding Region Six ecotourism sector, and emphasised its untapped potential, particularly along the rivers. And she made mention of ongoing discussions regarding the development of new resorts in the riverine areas of the region.
“We have also decided that we want to bring international championships here, and that is why we have decided to invest in a stadium at Palmyra. The idea is to bring visitors to your region,” she disclosed.
The development of ecotourism and sporting infrastructure aligns with Government’s broader vision for economic growth in Region Six, the Minister explained.
Meanwhile, at another community engagement at Sheet Anchor, Senior Minister with Responsibility for Finance and the Public Service, Dr Ashni Singh, noted that Government’s investments are not just aimed at addressing immediate needs, but are strategically designed for long-term growth.
“In the long term, we want to ensure that young people in Region Six are economically empowered and independent. We are focusing on creating opportunities that will benefit the community, not only now, but for years to come,” he disclosed.
Dr Singh highlighted that Government is committed to building a prosperous future for the people of the region.