DRAINAGE pumps from India have been tested and have performed to capacity.
This was disclosed by Agriculture Minister, Dr Leslie Ramsammy during an interview with this newspaper.

However, he noted that the pumps have been tested in a factory setting, but the Government of Guyana is now requesting an onsite demonstration.
“The testing demonstrated that it was performing to capacity. However, that was on a factory type of test. We want to see how this thing performs in real conditions,” he said.
The minister pointed out that most of the components for the pumps have already been delivered and that the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) is working with the Indian company to ensure that the remaining components are delivered in a timely manner.
He explained that the pumps are made up of engines, gear systems and other components, which carry the most cost. These components, he said, are already in the country.
However, he related that the actual “pump” is the large tube which is used to transport the water. He noted that this part carries the least cost and has not been delivered as yet.
The eight fixed pumps, along with six mobile pumps, are being acquired through a US $4 million line of credit from India, and are expected to provide a significant boost to the local drainage system.
Ramsammy advised that the six mobile pumps, in their entirety, are already in Guyana.
He also pointed out that the first set of pumps to be installed would be at stations at Pine Ground, Mahaicony and Rose Hall and Albion in Berbice.
(Nadine Sanchara)