Potable water access in the South Pakaraimas has been transformed following the commissioning of four water supply systems across the Karasabai service cluster in Region 9.
These projects, representing a combined $102 million investment in hinterland development, have brought near-universal access to potable water to 1,865 residents.
Karasabai Village, along with its satellite settlements of Jawari, Wichabai, and Curicock, has long faced the challenge of uneven water distribution. Before these interventions, families had to rely entirely on rainwater harvesting and open surface sources.
Within Karasabai itself, two new 150mm PVC wells were drilled in Section 2 and the Airstrip View area at a cost of approximately $36 million. These facilities, powered by independent photovoltaic systems and protected by secure perimeter fencing, now serve 127 households.
In the three satellite villages, similar wells were drilled and distribution lines installed.
Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar, while commissioning these systems, reminded that the value of this initiative also lies in the local labour used to bring it to fruition. “We are bringing the people in the community to be part of the execution of the development… they are paid, they learn a skill, and they become skillful to move that skill to other areas,” he said.
He added that the investments in these water systems are a testament to the government’s commitment to ensuring that no village is left behind in its quest to bridge the gap in water access between the coast and the hinterland.
These efforts aim to ensure that even the most remote indigenous communities have a reliable, year-round water supply.
The minister was accompanied by Hinterland Services Director Ramchand Jailal, Regional Vice Chairman Daniel Aguilar, Village Toshao David Albert, other regional officials and GWI representatives.
(GUYANA WATER INCORPORATED PRESS RELEASE)