The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has issued a formal statement addressing the recent water supply disruption in Linden, saying that it should not be held responsible for the issue.
The utility company responded to accusations from regional politicians, including opposition Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira, who they claimed linked the disruption to GWI’s operations.
The company also sought to clarify recent misunderstandings surrounding MP Figueira’s comments, stating that there were no ulterior motives behind his remarks, noting that the disruption was a result of the storm, not GWI’s operational failings.
The water supply was severely impacted following a storm on September 24, which caused significant damage to the electrical infrastructure, including the 800kVA transformer that powers the Wisroc Treatment Plant, GWI said.
GWI clarified too that the responsibility for maintaining and providing electricity to the plant lies with the Linden Utility Services Co-op Society Limited (LUSCSL).
Upon investigation, LUSCSL initially believed that the issue was due to damaged cables, which were promptly repaired.
However, it was not until the following Saturday that LUSCSL confirmed the transformer had been severely damaged beyond repair.
In response, GWI said it acted swiftly, sourcing a replacement transformer from Guyana Power and Light (GPL) and ensuring its prompt delivery and installation in Linden.
In the interim, GWI utilised a generator to power the Wisroc Treatment Plant, ensuring that water was still delivered to some areas, albeit at a reduced capacity.
Additionally, GWI said it collaborated with the Guyana Fire Service and private contractors to provide water to critical facilities, including the local hospital, schools, and hostels.
GWI also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve water supply infrastructure in Linden and surrounding areas.
These include the drilling of new wells in Amelia’s Ward, Bamia, Rockstone, Old England, and Coomacka, as well as an upgrade to the Amelia’s Ward Water Treatment Plant, which will see the addition of two new filters.
Moreover, the West Watooka Water Supply Project is set to provide spring water from the conservancy to replace the Demerara River as the primary water source.
A water loss reduction project is also underway to enhance service delivery to residents.
“We recognise that water is a fundamental human right and an essential service,” GWI stated, expressing regret for the extended disruption in service. “We will continue to work towards ensuring access to safe and sustainable water for all residents.”
GWI has assured the public that it remains committed to improving water supply and infrastructure across Region 10 and is dedicated to ensuring that the people of Linden have access to safe and reliable water services.
The post GWI says storm to be blamed, not utility, for Linden water disruption appeared first on News Room Guyana.
