$22.5M Water Supply System Commissioned at Falmouth
January 19, 2025 – Approximately 400 residents of Falmouth, Region Ten, now have access to safer and more reliable water through the $22.5 million Falmouth Water Supply System.
The facility was officially commissioned on Saturday by the Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal. Also attending the simple ceremony was Hinterland Services Director of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Mr. Ramchand Jailal and team, as well as, representatives from the nearby community of Bartica, Region Seven such as the Mayor of Bartica, His Worship Anthony Murray and Prime Ministerial Representative of Region Seven, Mr. Ewrin Ward.
Speaking at the event, Minister Croal underscored the importance of residents transitioning from unreliable and unsafe traditional water sources, such as the nearby river and creeks to improve their wellbeing.
The Minister further stated that water is a precious resource and urged the community to take care of this infrastructure and avoid wastage.
The new water system currently serves 95% of the community. To address the remaining 5%, whose homes are more far-flung, Minister Croal announced the provision of water tanks for the households.
Since 2020, water access in hinterland and riverine areas has significantly improved, rising from below 50% to over 90% today. The Minister said this is due to the drilling of over 120 wells in past four years. Another 60 wells are expected to be drilled in 2025, with GWI’s hinterland budget recently announced as $2.2 billion.
Meanwhile, Hinterland Services Director, Mr. Ramchand Jailal, highlighted the inclusive approach taken during the Falmouth project, which saw the engagement of the Village Council and provision of employment opportunities for local residents.
Toshao Gregory Williams expressed gratitude for the initiative, calling it a transformative development for Falmouth, as it also benefits vital facilities such as the school and health post.
The scope of works for the Falmouth Water Supply System includes: drilling of a 100-meter potable water well; installation of 300 lengths of 50mm pipelines and 170 lengths of ¾” pipes for service connections; installation of 55 service connections inclusive of standpipes; installation of PVC pipe fittings (sizes ¾’’ to 2’’) for interconnection to the well site and water system; construction of a 20’ x 25’ chain-link fence around the well site; and installation of solar panels and frames to power the system.
