In response to the urgent need for increased water intake and improved supply and distribution strategies, the Water and Sewerage Company (WASCO) has initiated specific measures to curb water leakages within its systems.
Facing escalating demands for water from both commercial and domestic consumers, WASCO has established a Water Management Unit specifically tasked with addressing these challenges and enhancing distribution across the island.
Maurice Norville, WASCO’s Head of Projects, stated that the new technical unit will target primary zones and communities, with the objective of reducing water losses. He emphasized that the formation of the Water Management Unit is a crucial step toward minimizing leakages throughout the island.
“This unit will focus on leak detection and repair, improving metering accuracy, and enhancing overall system efficiency,” Norville explained.
He also highlighted ongoing initiatives such as the John Compton Dam pipeline replacement and the Northern replacement project, which are anticipated to significantly reduce water losses in the affected areas.
“These are long-term projects that we have recognized must be addressed urgently,” he noted.
To tackle general issues relating to leakages in other communities, WASCO has also established a Non-Revenue Water Unit dedicated to identifying and developing strategies to manage water loss within the system.
“This team will conduct extensive monitoring to ensure timely repairs of any damages or leakages discovered in the network,” he added.
As part of broader efforts, Norville shared progress on four major capital projects under the Project Management Unit (PMU), which oversees infrastructure initiatives funded by international partners. The PMU plays a vital role in ensuring timely delivery and maintaining accountability.
“The PMU is responsible for leading the implementation of all major capital projects funded by international development partners, including the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the World Bank, and the CARICOM Development Fund,” a WASCO spokesperson explained. “Our team manages every stage of the project cycle—from planning and procurement to execution and monitoring—ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards in compliance with regulatory and donor agencies.”
The PMU actively collaborates with communities, various government agencies, consultants, and funding partners to maintain transparency and build trust throughout each project. These initiatives aim to enhance infrastructure, bolster economic resilience, and improve the availability and accessibility of clean water across Saint Lucia.
Noteworthy achievements funded by the CDB include:
– The Vieux Fort Water Supply Redevelopment Project
– Upgrades to the Grace Treatment Plant
– Upgrades to the Beausejour Treatment Plant
– Various projects at John Compton Dam, including:
– Construction of the sediment disposal area
– Dredging of the reservoir and transportation of sediment
– Repairs of the spillway wall
– The Dennery Water Project
Looking ahead, WASCO is gearing up for upcoming projects that include:
– The CDB-funded John Compton Dam Raw Water Pipeline Replacement
– The Patience Water Supply Redevelopment Project (CDF
– Rehabilitation and upgrades of the Theobalds Water Supply System
Pasco’s management unit states the island’s major water utility company remains committed to sustainable water management and enhanced service delivery for the community.