$13M in drainage works underway in Koberimo to transform dam into roadway
– some 250 residents to benefit
– Phase 1 to be completed within two weeks
Approximately 250 residents of Establishment Road, Koberimo within the Northwest District, Region One will soon benefit from improved access to their community following a nearly $13 million road construction project.
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Hon. Nigel Dharamlall and Minister of Housing and Water, Hon. Collin Croal recently inspected the ongoing works being undertaken by contractor, International Imports and Supplies.
Speaking with residents along the dam that will be transformed into a road, Minister Dharamlall said, “we would like you to have a properly constructed road. We don’t want you to have a dam constructed and in a few months after… it is destroyed…It will ease your access in and out of this area.”
The Minister said the road will enhance the community’s standard of living as children in particular will enjoy a smoother commute to school and health emergencies will be handled more efficiently, with less hassle to traverse the neighbourhood.
Minister Dharamlall added that the upgrades are on par with Government’s plans to develop Region One as the first phase of the project was included in the 2020 Emergency Budget and other works are to be done through Budget 2021.
The project falls under the Regional Democratic Council and was decided on following consultations with the community to assess residents’ needs.
The drainage works for Phase One is set to be completed within two weeks.
The community is set to receive first time access to electricity. Additionally, Minister Croal said water services will be enhanced for Koberimo residents.
“The intention is to link all the communities in the township from Wanaina, going all the way to [Mabaruma] settlement. So, everybody will receive similar amount of pressure, including Kumaka.”
These services are set to be improved by mid-year. Minister Croal has made headway in the Koberimo with the clearing of pipes and other remedial works to provide residents with potable water.
The Administration’s efforts to expand water supply falls in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6, which seeks to ensure clean water and sanitation for all.
The engagement with Koberimo residents was part of a series of meetings spearheaded by Ministers Dharamlall and Croal across Region One.