RESIDENTS of Great Falls, Region 10, now have improved access to potable water following the commissioning of an upgraded water supply system.
According to a press release issued on Saturday by the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation, the development will directly benefit approximately 250 residents, marking a major improvement in the delivery of essential services in the hinterland.
The upgraded system was commissioned on Friday by Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar, during a modest ceremony attended by local and regional officials. The ministry noted that the improvements now provide 95 per cent of the community with water directly to their taps, while the remaining five per cent continue to access water via standpipes at the village river banks.
The $15 million project included the development of the existing water well, the installation of a new photovoltaic pumping system, and the rehabilitation of both the well and trestle site. The upgrades ensure that residents now receive water directly to their homes, providing particular relief to staff and patrons at the village primary school and health centre, who previously had limited access to clean water.

Village Toshao, Sydney Allicock, highlighted the project’s importance, noting that residents previously relied on river water that had become heavily polluted due to ongoing mining activities. He stressed that the new system eliminates health risks and prevents potential outbreaks of waterborne illnesses.
“We are thankful to the government because they have provided this well. If we did not have this well, we would’ve had outbreaks of many sicknesses and diseases in this area,” he said.
Minister Indar emphasised that the provision of safe drinking water is a key part of the government’s vision to close the gap between coastal and hinterland communities and achieve 100 per cent access to potable water nationwide.
“This is about making sure that we deliver to people in the hinterland community, access to water that they can use to cook and drink,” he said.
The minister further highlighted that this initiative reflects the PPP/C’s hands-on governance approach, led by President Dr. Irfaan Ali, which prioritises tangible improvements in the lives of citizens, particularly those in remote areas.
“The heart of the President is with the poor people. He’s always meeting people, trying to find ways and means for his government to help people and to bring government services to people,” Minister Indar added.
The upgraded system, with its photovoltaic pumping technology, ensures a reliable and energy-efficient water supply capable of meeting the village’s current and future needs. By providing water directly to homes, schools, and the health centre, the system reduces the need to collect water from the river, improving daily life, supporting health, and enabling residents to focus on education and livelihoods.
Moreover, Minister Indar emphasised that this project reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to hinterland development, demonstrating a clear focus on improving access to basic services and enhancing the quality of life for all citizens.