Residents without direct access to purified water in Vergenoegen and surrounding communities can now fill a five-gallon container for just $100, following the official opening of a Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) water refilling station in Vergenoegen, Region Three yesterday.

The new facility is intended to provide a low-cost option for residents in areas where households either do not have water connections or are forced to pay significantly more to access water.

Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar said the initiative could make a significant difference for families in communities such as Tuschen and Zeelugt, particularly those living in the backlands and along the dams who have limited access to purified water.

Indar said residents in these areas often pay significantly more for water, making the $100 five-gallon refill an important alternative for families who need water for cooking, preparing meals and other daily household needs.

“It’s a simple thing in the eyes of many, but it means a lot for people who does not have access to purified water so they can consume directly,” Indar said.

GWI Chief Executive Officer Shaik Baksh said the Vergenoegen station is one of several water refilling facilities being established across Guyana, with GWI targeting at least two or three stations in each region.

Stations have already been opened in Region Two, Port Mourant in Region Six and Pouderoyen in Region 3, while Baksh said additional stations are planned for communities including Bartica and Linden.

According to Baksh, the initiative followed a visit to GWI by President Irfaan Ali, who gave the utility a mandate to expand water services to communities across the country.

Indar said the government is also working to extend the treated-water network to residents who currently lack direct access.

He disclosed that GWI is constructing a new transmission line from the Vega treatment plant to supply purified water to residents in the backlands of Tuschen.

A new well is also being drilled at Vergenoegen, while additional wells are being developed in Meten-Meer-Zorg, Leonora, Stewartville and Wales to expand access to water in growing communities.

Indar also addressed problems with existing distribution infrastructure in new housing areas, saying some water lines have been vandalised, with sections of the mains and connections at trench crossings removed.

He said GWI is working with the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) to repair the damaged infrastructure so that water can be supplied to affected residents.

According to Indar, once the distribution lines are restored, GWI may initially provide water on a scheduled basis, allowing residents to fill their tanks while the system is expanded.

Indar also urged residents not to vandalise water infrastructure, stressing that the facilities are intended to serve the communities.

He encouraged residents to report damage or other problems with the water system so that GWI can respond and carry out the necessary repairs.

The Vergenoegen water shop forms part of GWI’s broader programme to make treated water more accessible and affordable across Guyana.