Billions of dollars spent to improve outback and coastal water supplies

– The Auditor General’s report for 2023 shows that

FOLLOWING a thorough review of billions of dollars in strategic investments by the Ministry of Housing and Water Resources, the Auditor General’s 2023 report has further confirmed that the PPP/C administration remains committed to its promise to deliver improved water distribution systems in coastal and inland areas. regions.

Explaining this topic, Auditor General Deodat Sharma recalled that the Government of Guyana and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) signed loan agreement no. 20/SFR-GUY for “Water Supply Improvement Project”.
A sum of $1 billion has been allocated to the Ministry of Housing and Water Resources for the period under review to improve water services in areas such as Walton Hall Charity, Leguan, Wakenaam, Bush Lot and Thane No. 50 Village.
It also covered costs associated with research into the feasibility of treating surface water from Hope Canal and institutional strengthening to improve access to drinking water. As of December 31, 2023, amounts totaling $117.866 million have been properly expended, according to appropriations reports.

Turning to inland water supply, it was noted that for the period under review, the Ministry has been allocated a sum of $1.4 billion to ensure the completion of wells and distribution network in Regions Seven, Eight and Nine; well drilling materials, solar photovoltaic systems and electromechanical equipment.

The allocation also included pipes, fittings, parts and accessories for water supply systems; and new wells and water systems in Regions One, Two and Nine to improve drinking water supplies and operational efficiencies. As of December 31, 2023, the entire amount had been expended, according to appropriation reports. There were no warning signs in this regard.

Regarding coastal water supply, the Auditor General reported that the ministry has been allocated $12 billion for the reporting period. This included the construction and renovation of water treatment plants in regions two, three, four, five and six, as well as the upgrading of main networks and the purchase of water meters and meter boxes to improve water supply and the health and well-being of the population. residents. According to the appropriations report, as of December 31, 2023, the entire amount had been expended.
Importantly, the Auditor General noted that the ministry was allocated a sum of $1.645 billion during the reporting period to cover the cost of well construction in Turkey, Sofia, Shelter Belt, Central Ruimveldt and Ameillas Ward.

Efforts have also been made to upgrade Georgetown’s power lines and rehabilitate Georgetown’s sewerage plants to improve the health and well-being of residents. According to appropriation reports, the entire amount was spent.
By making significant investments in infrastructure, from boreholes and solar energy systems in remote regions to major upgrades to water treatment plants and sewerage plants in urban areas, the Government has taken measurable steps to ensure reliable and safe access to water for all Guyanese.