Goed Fortuin squatting area residents get potable water

May 18, 2021

Residents of the Goed Fortuin squatting area in Region Three have commended the Government for delivering on its promise to provide potable water.

The Ministry embarked on the exercise following a feasibility study, which sought to determine if the community could access water from the Pouderoyen Water Treatment Plant. The study included repairing leakages and installing meters to monitor water consumption of the 2,700 residents.

Minister within Ministry of Housing and Water, Hon. Susan Rodrigues, members of her team and residents inspect the development works in Goed Fortuin Squatting Area

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Hon. Susan Rodrigues visited the community in December, where she promised residents that their needs would be addressed.

Mr. Jadeshwar Doohchand who has been residing in the community for 30 years told DPI that this is the first time any Government has undertaken any developmental works in the community.

Minister within Ministry of Housing and Water Hon. Susan Rodrigues along with her team and regional officials look at a recently paved walkway.

“We now got water, treated water that could have happened years ago, but no one saw it fit to happen and I am very proud that she makes us get treated water. As for the development in Goed Fortuin squatting area, I am very happy since it is beyond my imagination,” he said.

In addition to potable water, the community is benefiting from the construction of concrete drainage structures and reinforced concrete walkways to the tune of $7.4 million.

This was undertaken by Ivor Allen Contracting Services and the Malgre Tout/Meer Zorgen Neighbourhood Democratic Council earlier this year.

A view of the walkway in Goed Fortuin Squatting Area

Ms. Taramettie Mohan expressed gratitude for the works, noting that residents can now live in comfort as promised by the Government. “Here was bad, no one could walk here because it was muddy but she did good work,” she said.

Minister Rodrigues inspected the ongoing works today. She said the project is 90 per cent complete and is scheduled to finish ahead of its deadline. The Minister said she was satisfied with the work, and she urged residents to continue to monitor the project and ensure that there is value for money.

“These smaller but significant issues matter, and it matters to us because it matters to you. It matters to us because it impacts your life.

It matters to us because when we pay attention to the smaller issues, it helps you feel significant and it helps to know that your Government is thinking about you and working on your behalf and we can provide a quality life that allows you to live in dignity.”