Water installation nearing completion in West Watooka Hill Top
—Residents expediting work through self-help initiative
—no longer have to source water from the creek or purchase water
DPI, Guyana, Tuesday, December 18, 2019
The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), has started installing pipelines at West Watooka Hill Top, Linden, which will see over 200 residents receiving water in their homes soon.
The workers, with assistance from residents, are pushing to have the work completed before Christmas.
The project got underway after residents explained to GWI officials the difficulties they face sourcing water for everyday use.
The pipelines being installed in West Watooka Hill Top by GWI officials assisted by community members
Resident Natasha Croft said they had to fetch water from the creek which they later learnt was unsanitary since many residential sewage systems led into the waterway. They also relied on the rain and had no choice but to purchase water during the dry season.
With children living in many of the homes, Croft said the provision of water was a much-needed amenity and she was relieved that their dry days will be ending soon.
“We are so excited since GWI came in; we have been with them from the get-go to render self-help in whatever way. We would go with our wheelbarrow and help fetch the white sand to fill back where they dig to put the pipes; we are working foot and foot with them,” she said.
Constituency Representative of West Watooka, Sherry Fyfe, said she too was pleased with the project.
“They did have issues with water, especially on the hill and so the project will benefit them a lot because the water would be purified water, so this is very good for them,” Fyfe said.
The pipelines being installed in West Watooka Hill Top by GWI officials supported by community members
The West Watooka Hill residents have set up a Community Development Council to make representation on their behalf. They have already engaged the National Industrial & Commercial Investments Ltd and secured land for the construction of an ICT hub and a play park for the children. The provision of internet service in the community is next on their agenda.
They will soon be making representation for the availability of Internet service in the community.