.. as Minister Ali condemns destruction of pipelines by miners in Mahdia
–  to speak with relevant authorities for urgent action
MINISTER of Housing and Water Mr. Irfaan Ali has condemned the recent destruction of pipelines by miners operating along the road to the Salbora Creek in Mahdia. “This is the second incident of this nature and I strongly condemn the actions by these miners,” Ali stated.

A statement from Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), the nation’s supplier of Water and Sanitation Services, quoted Ali as saying that the miners, due to their activities in the area, have destroyed GWI’s pipelines causing tremendous damage and compromising the quality of service it provides to the community of Mahdia.

The minister explained that the action by the miners caused the destruction of a significant section of pipeline serving the Mahdia community.  He emphasized that the ruined lines would cause unwanted materials to enter the distribution system, thereby endangering the health of the residents of that community.

“These miners have no regard for safety and for the well-being of the community,” Ali said, while pointing out that “open pipelines have disastrous results for the health of those served by the system.” 

He further stated that GWI and the Ministry of Housing and Water have made tremendous strides for the delivery of water to hinterland communities and this recent setback poses a major obstacle.

“Due to tremendous investment and a hardworking team, we now provide water to 70% of Guyana’s hinterland communities,” stated Minister Ali, “due to this destruction we have to replace large sections of the distribution system which calls for significant finance.”

The minister further explained that the destructive actions by the miners affected the livelihoods of the Mahdia community, “the damaged section of pipeline resulted in a reduction of pressure which severely affected the lives of the residents since less water was available for everyday activities.  What angers me is that this has happened before and the miners were warned of the consequences.”

The minister advised that he will bring the matter to the attention of relevant authorities and hopes that severe action will be taken against the offenders.  “This is completely unacceptable,” he stated.

“Beyond the destruction of our infrastructure, these miners must be aware that they are putting lives at risk by compromising the quality of water provided to the Mahdia community. As such, anyone engaging in this wanton disregard for the water infrastructure and the safety of those who use it will be met with severe consequences,” the minister warned.