During the last Government Press Conference on July 6th, the Hon. Minster or Natural Resources, Mr. Kyle Hodge, assured the public that the water situation on Anguilla, even in light of a rather dry spell is being taken care of.
“We are all aware that Anguilla is currently experiencing a prolonged dry spell,” the Minister noted. “The dry season is now fully upon us. I have heard several reports and discussions including comments suggesting that Anguilla as a whole is running out of water. I want to assure the public that that is simply not the case.”
The Minister insisted that from a Government’s perspective Anguilla’s water production remains strong and sustainable. He said that the water desalinization company, Seven Seas, continues to produce just under one million gallons per day without any issues. Besides, he said that the brackish water plant, TSG, continues to deliver its daily production targets of just 500,000 gallons daily.
“There is no shortage in the Government’s ability to produce water,” the Minister said. “With Seven Seas producing desalinated water from the sea, and with the sea having water in abundance, and with TSG producing its water from The Valley aquifer, there is no need for overdue concern.
He acknowledged that what has been seen over the past month is that some private water suppliers have struggled to keep pace with the increased commercial demand and homes which they service.
He said, “We recognize that this has created challenges for a number of residents. With that in mind, I have held discussions with the Department of Water Services and I made it clear that our priority must be to ensure that our people have ample access to water, particularly for residential use. We know that access to clean water is essential to life and good health and this is central to our commitment to the people of Anguilla.”
He stated that the Department of Water Services has been tasked in ensuring that households which are in need receive an adequate supply of water. He stipulated that this might mean arranging for water trucks to deliver water to homes that are not connected to the Department of Water Services or homes that are not receiving an adequate supply for one reason or another. He said he expects to be moving in the direction soon to ensure a better level of water security for all residents of Anguilla.
The Minister made mention of the two water mains projects currently being planned, namely the laying of water pipes on the Jeremiah Gumbs Highway and the Long Path project. In terms of the Jeremiah Gumbs Highway he said that the Evaluation Committee has submitted their report to the procurement board which will meet to make a determination. He noted that the procurement documents for the Long Path water project have been completed, is under review, and will soon be ready for public bidding.
Minister Hodge noted that significant progress is being made on the enhancement work to the Water Department Building on Crocus Hill. The first floor roof has been poured, the block work is almost completed, and the beams are installed with the second floor roof now being decked. Additionally, he said the roof of the storage building has also been completed and the plastering work is underway.
The Minister explained that this facility will provide the Department of Water Services with ample space needed to improve operations and enhance customer service.
By: James R. Harrigan
