Aishalton Village Council Receives $23.8M Contract for Water Distribution Network

A significant step towards enhancing water access in hinterland communities, Minister Susan Rodrigues, Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, presented a contract worth $23.8 million to the Aishalton Village Council for a water distribution system.

The ceremony, held earlier today, was attended by Hinterland Services Director-Guyana Water Inc., Mr. Ramchand Jailal, and other technical officers.

The new water distribution system will supplement the existing four water supply systems in the village, addressing the needs arising from the growing population and prolonged dry seasons affecting several regions nationwide. Minister Rodrigues emphasized the necessity of the new system, highlighting the severe depletion of one of the existing wells.

“It is crucial that we meet the increasing demand for potable water, and this initiative underscores our government’s dedication to expanding access to safe drinking water,” stated Minister Rodrigues.

The Minister noted that four years ago, hinterland communities had a mere 44% access to potable water, but significant investments have increased this to 86%. With plans for an additional 40 wells in the coming months, the Ministry aims to achieve 100% coverage in hinterland communities.

The Village Council, supported by community participation, will oversee the rollout of the distribution network in the upcoming weeks, contributing to the village’s economic growth.

The well drilling, costing $15 million, was completed by D&R Construction, while the distribution network works, to be executed by 3D Construction, are underway.

The event, attended by Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony, U.S. Ambassador to Guyana Ms. Nicole D. Theriot, representatives from the Pan American Health Organization, Toshao Michael Thomas, and residents, coincided with the LLIN Mass Distribution Launch 2024, aimed at malaria prevention.