Linden water woes being addressed – GWI

[www.inewsguyana.com] – The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) along with  technical experts from the Ministry of Communities recently held a joint session to discuss the current operational challenges being experienced with the Linden Water Supply and Rehabilitation Programme (LWSRP) with the aim of finding solutions to the water supply difficulties affecting customers of Linden.

Funded by the Government of Guyana and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the LWSRP encompassed the construction of two water treatment facilities at Amelia’s Ward and Wisroc, Linden.

 The construction of the two facilities and all works related to the LWSRP are being executed by GWI, contractor UEM Inc. and consultant EGIS EAU in association with SRKN.

While the construction of the two facilities is beyond 95% completion, including the installation of electrical and mechanical components, the facilities are currently experiencing operational challenges with regard to the level of service provided to GWI customers of Amelia’s Ward and Wisroc. 

These challenges have prompted urgent action by Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Keith Scott and the Corporate Management Team of GWI. 

 A Joint Task Force has been assembled, consisting of the Programme Team for the LWSRP and technical experts from the Ministry of Communities including Technical Advisor to the Minister on Projects, Charles Ceres.

The Joint Task Force has identified a number of challenges which require immediate attention including difficulties being experienced with the filtration systems utilized by the facilities. 

 This challenge has a direct effect on the level of production at both facilities and as such has been identified as one of the key obstacles which the task force seeks to resolve. 

‘It is imperative that the people of Linden are aware that despite these challenges, the Ministry and the Guyana Water Inc. remain completely committed to the success of the programme,’ stated Minister Keith Scott, ‘joint consultations will be held frequently with the Programme Manager, contractor, Regional Administration of Linden, technical experts from the Ministry and all concerned parties until these challenges have been resolved’.

Both water treatment facilities under the LWSRP are within the defects liability period.  Hence, any required changes can be implemented by the contractor before the facilities are officially presented to GWI.  

GWI has committed to ensuring that customers of Linden are fully informed of the challenges and proposed solutions for the LWSRP through the company’s Public Relations Department.  A radio programme providing details on the operational challenges of the LWSRP is scheduled for broadcast next week on the local Linden radio station, 104.3 Power FM. 

Minister Scott further emphasized that the Ministry of Communities and GWI have resolved to take whatever steps are necessary to fulfill the promise made to the residents of Amelia’s Ward and Wisroc of improved water service.