Works progressing on $1.18B water treatment plant to serve Region 2

Infrastructural works on the Onderneeming Water Treatment Plant in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) are advancing steadily, and as a result, over 20,000 residents from Taymouth Manor to Supenaam would soon be able to access treated water. The plant, which costs $1.18 billion, is between 70 and 80 per cent complete, and completion deadline has been set in December.
Currently, the Essequibo Coast lacks access to treated water, and this plant is the first of two major investments planned to enhance water infrastructure in Region Two. This crucial intervention would specifically focus on removing iron content from the water, ensuring cleaner and safer drinking water for residents.
During an inspection exercise conducted on Friday, Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal expressed satisfaction with the progress of the project, and noted that its construction coincides with Government’s commitment to bringing relief to the people of Guyana. He also disclosed that a significant portion of the workforce employed in the project is from the region, providing additional economic benefits locally.
Looking ahead, Croal mentioned ongoing evaluations for five additional treatment plants. One of these is earmarked to serve areas on the Essequibo Coast such as Charity, and is expected to be undertaken next year.
Since assuming office in August 2020, the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Administration has been working to increase access to treated water along the coast from about 52 percent to 90 percent by the year 2025. Among the many strategic actions being taken to advance the coverage of treated water is the construction of thirteen water treatment plants throughout Guyana. Among the areas to benefit from this development are the Region Three communities of Wales, Parika, Vergenoegen and La Parfaite Harmonie.
Communities in Region Four that would likewise benefit include Bachelor’s Adventure, Cummings Lodge and Caledonia. (G1)