GWI starts Bartica water improvement programme

While Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has commenced an enhancement programme to improve the water services provided to residents of Bartica, the company is concerned about the high levels of water wastage in the community.

A release from GWI yesterday said that the programme consists of the construction of a 500 cubic metre storage tank valued at over $50 Million; the upgrade of service connections and installation of water meters for another $30M.

According to GWI Project Manager, David Merell, upon completion of the improvement programme, customers of Bartica will benefit from extended hours of water service due to the increased storage capacity of the larger tank which will provide a larger volume of water.

The release said that in addition, GWI will upgrade water service connections across Bartica which will result in further improvements in the level of service and quality of water provided to customers.

GWI however noted that a significant portion of the water that is supplied is consistently being wasted by customers and this continues to be the key factor that causes the level of service to fluctuate.

The company has warned customers of Potaro Road, West Indian Housing Scheme and the Byderabo area about their continued wastage.

GWI stated that the installation of meters had received some resistance from customers; this component was aimed at reducing wastage in order to make more water available.  GWI has issued notices to customers and continues to appeal for their cooperation as metering is critical to curbing wastage and improving levels of service.

The release said that all components of the Bartica Water Improvement Programme are being executed by contractor Alvin Chowritmootoo Construction Services.

The water utility has commenced an awareness programme aimed at informing customers about the improvements expected upon completion of the programme. Television advisories providing details of the enhancement programme will continue in July.

GWI said that customers with questions can contact the customer services call centre on telephone 227-8701; email address customercallcentre@gwi.gy or via GWI’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/everydropcountsgy