The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has recognised the need for a sustainable supply of water not only for consumption and domestic purposes, but also to support economic activities in the village of Paramakatoi, Potaro-Siparuni (Region 8).

This was noted following a recent visit by a team of GWI officials headed by Dr. Van West-Charles and accompanied by Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Valerie Garrido-Lowe to assess the water situation there and to look at ways of improving the water production and distribution system to allow all residents easy and adequate access.

Paramakatoi is located in the highlands, roughly midway between the Barima-Waini and Cuyuni-Mazaruni Regions to the north and the Rupununi Region to the south.

According to a release from GWI, Dr. Van West-Charles invited representatives of the Paramakatoi Village Council to meet with GWI’s technical personnel at his Vlissengen Road, Georgetown office to discuss the realization of new water systems for the community.

During the meeting, Toshao of the community, Mr. Gideon John, Vice Toshao, Mr. Jimmy James and Mr. Christopher Chung, presented to Dr. Van West-Charles, Executive Director of Infrastructure, Planning and Implemention Mr. Ramchand Jailal and Hinterland Manager, Mr. Osei Manifold, a community designed plan for the drilling of wells at various feasible locations.

The release noted that a plan to source water at the top of a mountain and distribute it to the community was also discussed as a possible solution to situation that exists.  Additionally, Dr. Van West-Charles spoke to the need for multiple water sources, pointing to rainwater harvesting and springs as alternatives.

“Satisfied with their proposal and knowledge of the community, GWI entered into an official agreement with the Paramakatoi Village Council to develop the ideal water system that would allow for an adequate supply for domestic and economic purposes.  Dr. Van West-Charles said GWI’s priority is satisfying the population and farmers’ needs,” the release noted.

The agreement will see the community members assisting with preparatory works for drilling.  This includes excavating the proposed water source to facilitate test pumping by GWI and submitting a proposal for the maintenance of the water system among other things. This collaboration is seen as the coming together of engineering expertise and community knowledge to realize the need of the community.

Upon completion, the Managing Director said GWI will focus on the installation of a filtration system and regular testing to ensure quality water.  The community currently depends on a reservoir of spring water that is deemed insufficient. Villagers have also complained about droughts during the period of January to March.