The residents of Yurong Paru, Region Nine are now enjoying reliable access to potable water following the commissioning of a $23 million water supply system. This transformative project by the Ministry of Housing and Water-Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), brings much-needed relief to the community.

Minister of Housing and Water, Hon. Collin Croal, who led the commissioning ceremony today, stated that the new system eliminates the arduous task of fetching water from distant sources, making daily life more convenient for villagers.

The Minister at the time was joined by the Regional Vice Chairman, Mr. Bertie Xavier; GWI’s Hinterland Services Director, Mr. Ramchand Jailal; as well as engineers from GWI and the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA).

The Minister said that with the completion of this project, approximately 95% of the village now has water access. He futher stated that leakages caused by ongoing roadworks have been identified and assured residents that GWI will swiftly address these issues to optimize water supply.

Minister Croal reaffirmed the government’s target of achieving 100% coverage in hinterland and riverine communities by the end of 2025. Over the past four years, the government has invested more than $5.5 billion in the water sector to expand access in these areas, with an additional $2.1 billion budgeted for 2025.

Minister Croal also highlighted that more than 100 wells have been drilled across hinterland regions by 2024. Many of these wells provide first-time water access, while others expand existing coverage and enhance climate resilience.

In his remarks, Hinterland Services Director, Mr. Jailal, explained that Yurong Paru previously relied only on a natural mountain spring for water. However, prolonged dry seasons causes the spring to dry up, leaving residents without access to water. In response, GWI initiated the drilling of the new well, executed by regional contractor C&H Engineering. The project also provided employment opportunities for villagers, who contributed to pipeline installation and solar panel setup, enhancing their technical skills.

Recognizing the challenge of maintaining over 300 hinterland water systems, GWI, in collaboration with the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, has an ongoing training initiative to equip Community Service Officers (CSOs) with the necessary skills to manage these systems. As part of this effort, Mr. Jailal said that two CSOs from Yurong Paru have been trained to oversee and maintain the village’s new water infrastructure.

Regional Vice Chairman, Mr. Bertie Xavier, lauded the project, emphasizing its significant impact on residents’ daily lives. He also commended the active involvement of the community in the project’s execution, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in sustainable development.

Residents have expressed their appreciation for the new water system, celebrating the profound change it has brought to their daily routines. Ms. Jenny Rodrigues, one of the beneficiaries, shared her joy at having access to clean water for the first time.

“I never use to get water water, now I getting water,” said Ms. Rodrigues. She added, “I feel so happy because I have the water near rather than [having to] go far”.

The commissioning of this water supply system marks another major milestone in the government’s efforts to ensure sustainable and equitable water access for all Guyanese.

Photos: Sydel Thomas, Central Housing and Planning Authority PR Department.