Almost 1500 residents will benefit from an improved water supply system, following the inking of a contract to undertake remedial works in the Matthew’s Ridge community, Region One.
The agreement was signed between the Guyana Water Inc. and the Matthew’s Ridge/Arakaka and Port Kaituma Neighbourhood Democratic Council on Thursday at the Matthew’s Ridge Community Centre.
Addressing officials and residents of the region at the simple signing ceremony, Managing Director of GWI, Dr. Richard Van West-Charles, said the utility’s partnership with the region forms part of President David Granger’s message of ensuring equity across the country.
Dr. Richard Van West-Charles and Chairperson of the Matthew’s Ridge/Arakaka and Port Kaituma NDC, Ms. Margaret Lambert, sign the contract in the presence of GWI and regional officials.
He added that GWI has noted the urgency of upgrading the water supply system in the region and will be working with the Ministry of Public Health to test and treat the water sources regularly to prevent the occurrence of water borne diseases.
“We will place kits at the hospital and train staff to monitor and test the water quality on a weekly basis so as to ensure that it is safe for use in hospitals, schools, restaurants and in the community”, the Managing Director posited.
Residents were also urged to report leaks to prevent any compromising of the quality of water distributed to them. “By August 2017, residents will see a significant improvement in their water supply and will receive improved supply of water,” Dr. Van West-Charles assured.
Additionally in Region one, GWI will be drilling a well in Oronoque and Yarakitato provide water to residents there for the first time and rehabilitating the water source in Port Kaituma. The Hosororo Falls is also being utilized to supply residents with improved service and this project is currently ongoing.
Dr. Van West-Charles called on the Regional Administration and residents to identify areas without water access, noting that “We take equity serious so we need a “stakeholdership” approach with the community”. The Managing Director also proposed quarterly meetings to address arising issues in the community.