In light of an impending water shortage, the Water and Sewerage Company (WASCO) is taking proactive steps to enhance water intake and provide this essential resource to residents across the island.
WASCO has announced that its technical teams successfully completed repairs on three major leak areas of the 24-inch raw water pipeline in Millet on Wednesday evening.
However, the restoration process has faced delays due to new developments along the line.
According to the statement, “Following the completion of those primary repairs, a gradual reopening of the network was initiated to begin supplying the system. Unfortunately, during this process, two additional ruptures occurred at different locations.”
The statement further clarified that these new issues are a direct result of the aging pipeline’s fragile condition, which could not withstand the pressure of the initial recharge. Repair teams have been deployed and are currently on-site addressing these new leaks.
WASCO anticipates that repairs would be finished by Thursday. Once completed, there will be a gradual reopening of the line to allow water to flow to the Theobalds Treatment Plant while minimizing stress on the infrastructure. If repairs proceed as planned, it was expected that the restoration of supply to commence by Thursday evening.
Customers should be aware that the system will take time to stabilize; water will be restored to lower elevations first, while those at higher elevations and extreme ends of the network will receive supply as pressure levels normalize.
The statement emphasizes, “Saint Lucia has reached a critical juncture where conservation methods must not only be adopted but practiced consistently. In the coming weeks and months, WASCO expects further reductions in water pressure due to the ongoing dry season, which is compounded by ongoing issues with our aging pipeline infrastructure.”
“Conditions may worsen before meaningful improvements can be achieved. The dry season has intensified already low water pressures, and each resident must take personal responsibility by ensuring at least one full week of stored water to counter these challenges.”
WASCO expressed regret for the continued disruptions experienced across many communities on the Northern Distribution Network, especially for those who faced supply interruptions prior to the commencement of these emergency works.
The statement concluded, “Our technical teams are working tirelessly to complete these repairs and restore service to all affected areas. We sincerely apologize for the ongoing inconvenience and thank our customers for their continued patience.”