By Fabiana Mcklmon
The Ministry of Housing and Water has announced plans to allocate $400 million for the construction of a new water treatment facility in Bartica, Region Seven, aimed at enhancing water service delivery for residents.
Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal revealed this initiative during a recent visit to the region, emphasizing the government’s commitment to establishing more wells and treatment plants nationwide to improve water supply and distribution.
Minister Croal stated that tenders for the project are currently open, with the award expected to be made in March and construction slated to commence in April.
The new treatment plant is expected to significantly improve water supply in Bartica and surrounding areas, ensuring a consistent 24-hour supply instead of the previous three times per week schedule.
Moreover, Minister Croal highlighted that the facility will cater to various communities, including the five-mile area housing scheme and the central Bartica region.
It will interconnect with existing infrastructure to provide treated water to every household.
Currently, nearly 60 percent of residents in hinterland and riverine communities have access to a consistent water supply.
However, the government aims to achieve universal access to water by 2025 for residents in these areas and to provide potable, treated water to all coastal residents.
The investment in the new water treatment plant underscores the government’s commitment to improving water infrastructure and ensuring access to clean, safe water for all Guyanese citizens.