GWI ensuring customers have access to water amid COVID-19
DPI, Guyana, Thursday, March 19, 2020
The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) is taking all the necessary steps to ensure that their customers have access to potable water amid the global coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
This was disclosed by Managing Director of GWI Dr. Richard Van-West Charles during a press conference on Thursday.
Managing Director of GWI Dr. Richard Van-West Charles and Executive Director of Operations Dwayne Shako.
“GWI has sought to ensure that the production across the country is adequate to guarantee that our customers and the population at large have access to water to engage in public health practices such as handwashing,” Dr. Van-West Charles stated.
He noted that work of the utility company continues. “All of our executive directors have been dispatched and they have completed their work in all of the regions to ensure that the offices are adequately staffed taking into consideration that some members of the staff would have children at home.”
Dr. Van West Charles said provision also has been made for members of staff with children between the ages of one month to 12 years at home, to ensure they are properly cared for.
Additionally, staff have been in the field checking to ensure that there are no leaks in the system so as not to interrupt the pressure and flow of water. Customers encouraged to report any leaks.
GWI is also working to guarantee that the four quarantine centres established have access to a 24hour supply of water.
It was noted that there are some areas currently facing challenges; Mabaruma where the water levels have dropped significantly, water is being trucked into the township to ensure the residents have an adequate supply of water.
Executive Director of Operations Dwayne Shako said there are also some areas on the East Bank Demerara and in Amelia’s Ward Phase Three in Region 10 facing challenges. Shako explained the issue in Amelia’s Ward may be a leak and GWI workers are currently trying to locate the leak to
On the East Bank, Shako noted there are some deficiencies in terms of supply and demand, however, those areas are receiving water from 5am to 10pm daily.