Water and oil might mix
─ GWI eyes revenue for aging network
DPI, Guyana, Wednesday, August 08, 2018
The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) is looking to secure funds from the expected oil revenues post 2020 to aid in the rehabilitation of its aged distribution network.
Regional Manager of GWI’s Georgetown branch, Curtis Niles
This is according to the company’s Managing Director, Dr. Richard Van West-Charles. Speaking at a recent forum, Dr. Van West-Charles explained that repairs to the network are critical, particularly for swift responses during emergencies.
“Within two weeks we had five major breaks in Vlissingen road and this is cast iron and if you saw where the breakages were, you would recognise that we have a problem. We started by the one at Cuffy and further down. So, this requires a major investment and I hope that by 2021 when the oil resources may kick in because it’s a major issue for the capital city.”
During the first quarter, the GWI has replaced over 600 non-functional fire hydrants which, for years, were practically useless because of the condition they were in. Dr. Van West-Charles said though it is not the responsibility of GWI, the company in collaboration with the Guyana Fire Service took on the task of refurbishing the hydrants around Georgetown.
“We know this is an issue for security, not only for those in Georgetown, and we’re seeking to work with CH&PA (Central Housing and Planning Authority) and other agencies to ensure that fire hydrants become a mainstream activity for new emerging communities and it is something we have to look at as the society developments improve.”
During the rehabilitation process, GWI’s Regional Manager for its Georgetown office, Curtis Niles said that in some instances the entire stand and valves on many of the hydrants were changed. He added that the hydrants were also vandalised and could not be connected to the fire hose, so those materials were also replaced.
“We put devices in place to properly secure them, not to say that they will not be able to remove them but they would have a more difficult time removing them. We didn’t complete all; we have about 500 more to be refurbished.”
Over $25M was spent to execute the works and the company intends to work closely with the fire service to install more hydrants across the city and ensure that those are also properly maintained.
By: Ranetta La Fleur
Image: Jameel Mohamed