Castries, Saint Lucia, November 18, 2024 - The Water and Sewerage Company Inc.
(WASCO) wishes to inform the public that recent heavy rainfall has resulted in lower-than-normal water pressure for many areas across Saint Lucia. Reduced water production at our treatment plants is a direct result of high turbidity and clogged intakes. This situation arises from the unique nature of our water supply system, which relies on natural sources that are vulnerable to environmental impacts during severe weather.
As a preventative measure, WASCO must place its systems offline and suspend its operations temporarily to ensure clogged intakes are cleaned thoroughly. Typically, these measures lead to decreased pressure levels and disruptions in supply, which all consumers are currently experiencing, particularly those situated at higher elevations or at the furthest points of our distribution networks. However, this process is necessary to maintain the continuous flow of raw water, to allow us to deliver a consistent, safe supply to the public after treatment.
These challenges are further exacerbated by aging infrastructure, which limits our ability to respond quickly to changing conditions. Moreover, the low water rates charged to consumers constrain WASCO's ability to invest in necessary upgrades and improvements. These factors combined, impact our service reliability, especially in times of high demand or environmental stress.
WASCO strongly encourages all consumers to consider investing in additional water storage solutions such as rainwater harvesting. The effects of prolonged droughts in recent years have demonstrated the vulnerability and severe depletion of our natural water sources when rain is scarce. By having additional storage, consumers can better prepare for potential shortages and help reduce the strain on the system during the dry season and periods of heavy rainfall.
WASCO appreciates the understanding and cooperation of all our customers as we work to overcome environmental and infrastructural challenges, to provide consistent and reliable access to clean, safe water.
-ENDS-
