Residents of Waramuri and Para, in the Moruca sub-district of Region One, received significant upgrades in their water supply infrastructure with the commissioning of the Waramuri & Para Water Supply System. Over 100 households now have improved access to potable water with the new system.

The water supply system was officially commissioned this afternoon by the Minister of Housing and Water, Hon. Collin Croal, alongside Regional Chairman Mr. Brentnol Ashley, Regional Vice-Chairperson Ms. Annansha Peters, Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) Director of Hinterland Services, Mr. Ramchand Jailal and residents.

Prior, Waramuri relied on a small water system with a shallow well, which only serviced the health center and a limited number of households. To address the community’s needs, GWI made several attempts to drill a new well using a PAT rig. Despite three tries, these efforts were unsuccessful. Subsequently, a contractor was engaged, but this attempt was also futile.

GWI then shifted focus, successfully completing wells in other areas such as Hurdiah, Kwebanna, and 5 Mile. Following discussions with the village council and other key stakeholders, a decision was made to drill at Para. This attempt, conducted by the contractor, was successful on the first try and was followed by installation of a pump and distribution system through community participation.

Minister Croal expressed satisfaction with the project’s completion, noting that Moruca has significant progress to make towards water accessibility. He highlighted that six wells have been completed in Moruca mid-year, with an additional twelve wells planned for 2024. The Minister acknowledged that some residents in Para, who live far from the newly commissioned system, were not yet connected and assured that GWI will be working to address these households. He also mentioned that a trestle is at the tendering stage to further support the water distribution efforts.

“Region One by and large has coverage of about 83%. We’re hoping that by the time 2024 is complete we should be somewhere close to 90% coverage,” stated Minister Croal. Overall, the government is looking to drill at least forty wells in hinterland and riverine communities to expand access to potable water.

Regional Vice-Chairperson Ms. Annansha Peters, a resident of Moruca, highlighted that the new water supply would greatly improve residents’ quality of life. She shared that she previously had to travel long distances to fetch water and ensured that the community will work to help maintain the new system.

Toshao of Waramuri, Mr. Vivian Edwards, praised the government for this crucial intervention, noting its positive impact on residents’ lives.

Meanwhile, resident Mr. Kester Fredericks explained that prior to this development, residents relied on pond water and rainwater harvesting with water tanks. “Receiving water directly to our home should make it much more easier. The children would benefit truly cause they wouldn’t have to go and fetch water anymore. They will receive it right at our doorsteps and truly it will boost them to go to school more early,” he said.

Another resident, Ms. Lenita Henry, expressed her happiness, also stating she and her family no longer have to worry about fetching water.

The total cost of the project including previous attempts amounted to $45 million.