AS efforts to replace Georgetown’s aged pipe network continues, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), on Tuesday, announced that ongoing works to replace a section of the network that runs from Shelterbelt to Lamaha Street, is expected to be completed within the next two weeks.
The $100 million project entails the installation of approximately 700 metres of 22-inch transmission pipeline, four and six-inch distribution pipelines, installation of service connections, as well as the excavation and restoration work necessary for the laying of the pipe, which runs underground.
The execution of this project had commenced in 2017 but hiccups were encountered due to the previous contractor’s failure to meet his obligations. The contract was terminated and legal proceedings were instituted against the defaulting contractor in the High Court.
The project recommenced in January and was initially expected to conclude by the end of March, this year; however, the deadline was extended due to inclement weather.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GWI, Shaik Baksh, and other technical officials, on Tuesday, visited the corner of Republic and Lamaha Streets, where work being conducted by R. Kissoon Contracting Services is coming to a close.
Director of Projects at GWI, Aubrey Roberts, explained that remaining works include the installation of distribution mains on Vlissingen Road between Garnett and Duncan Streets, connecting pipelines from the various streets to the new mains, the installation of new service connections and the commissioning of the new mains.
According to a statement from GWI, the company also found, in the project areas, clogged drains, which had not been cleaned for years, and were contributing to flooding in the City.

“Already, GWI has cleared some of the drainage pipes and even installed new ones. The unclogging of the drains is an added benefit of the project and the changes are evident,” the statement said.
Baksh noted that there still remains much more to be done, stating that the government has committed to providing funds for the replacement of all aged transmission and distribution pipelines in the City; this will require significant capital expenditure.
Replacement of the GWI network in the city is a long-awaited project, as it has been severely affecting water supply to residents.
Over the past few years, the city experienced countless breakages to the transmission lines due to this. When this happens, water supply is disrupted in order to rectify the issue.