First-time access for some, as more aresidents in Region 9 receive potable water
Over 1,000 residents in Sand Creek, as well as residents of Aranaputa and Massara, all in Region 9 (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) have recently been granted first time or better access to potable water, through the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI). The efforts are a part of GWI’s intention to increase the number of Guyanese gaining potable water access in the hinterland and to ensure all communities have access to potable water by 2025. In Sand Creek, some 1020 residents are boasting of first time and improved access to potable water as a result of GWI’s completion of a new well in the community, in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO). Those to benefit include the community’s Nursery, Primary and Secondary schools; School dormitory; Health Center and households. A release from the water company stated that a photovoltaic pumping system, equipped with 18 solar panels, was installed to power the new water supply system.
Additionally, 1 KM of distribution pipes was installed in a section of the community, affording the residents access to water within close proximity to their homes. “Not only has this eliminated the burden of fetching water which was faced by the students of the dormitory and other residents, but access to potable water has now significantly reduced the number of cases of water borne diseases,” the release said. Residents like Elizabeth Charlie and Claudia Bernard expressed their appreciation for the potable water.
They stated that, in the past, their water challenges were made even more difficult during the dry season which would see them having to fetch water over long distances. The community’s Toshao, Maxie Pugsley, and Headmistress of the Sand Creek Nursery School, Olivia Gomes, also thanked GWI for responding to the water needs of the community. According to Gomes, children at the school previously faced challenges when it came to washing their hands at the sinks after using the washroom. Infrastructural works are also ongoing in Sand Creek for the installation of additional distribution pipes and the construction of a metal trestle on which six water tanks will be placed. These works are expected to be completed within two weeks.
(Guyana Chronicle)