GOVERNMENT’s promise of improving access to potable water for Guyana’s hinterland is now a reality for yet another Amerindian community in the North Pakaraimas, Region Eight.

On Sunday, Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal was joined by villagers of Sandhill and their leaders for the commissioning of a $36M water supply system.

This new facility will serve the community’s population of 129 persons.

Before the official commissioning of the system, Minister Croal and team, which included Hinterland Services Director of GWI, Mr. Ramchand Jailall, and other technical staff held a meeting with residents at the village benab.

Residents were updated on the recently passed National Budget. Coming out of the budget, the minister explained that Guyana’s hinterland regions will continue to benefit from several interventions.

The residents were also allowed to raise issues affecting them and make suggestions on how these can be remedied.

Meanwhile, speaking directly about the investment made for the new water supply facility, the minister called on residents to play their part in ensuring that it serves generations to come.
For years, residents of the community relied on rain water harvesting as their main source of water.

This new facility was constructed by R. Kissoon Contracting Services and saw the construction of a concrete intake pumping chamber at a creek source, the installation of 800 meters of 50mm (2”) PVC pipes, and 400 meters of 19mm (3/4”) PVC pipes with 20 service connections.

Additionally, there was the construction of a concrete slab and the installation of storage tanks, and the facility is powered by a photovoltaic pumping system.

Meanwhile, the community which has a vibrant sports group, received a donation of sports equipment from the visiting team.