The Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) is advising citizens to prepare for a shift in water scheduling measures.
With the Dry Season upon us, WASA’s Director of Operations, Shaira Ali, says preparations have been put forward to assist in tackling the challenges it brings.
“To achieve this, we are closely managing the water supply in our reservoirs in the North, South, and Tobago, specifically within the Northeast District. Our largest reservoirs, the Caroni, Arena, and Hollis reservoirs, which combined serve approximately 55% of the population through the Caroni and Hollis water treatment facilities.”
WASA has indicated that a decline in water levels has already been experienced as the conditions of the Dry Season continue to peak in the absence of sufficient rainfall.
“Current reservoir levels are at Arena, 73.8%, which is 10% below the long-term average of 84.3%, and at Hollis Dam, currently 77%, which is just 1% above the long-term average of 76%.”
To mitigate the impact of the Dry Season, WASA announced areas that may be impacted by scheduling measures to be implemented.
“As a result, water distribution schedules in several areas may be adjusted as required to ensure the equitable distribution of water to all of our customers. Some areas that will be impacted will include areas in the East, such as the Arima Old Road, La Florissante, Lillian Heights up to Arouca. And in areas in the West being fed off Valsayn and the El Socorro booster stations, such as Barataria, Santa Cruz, and San Juan up to St. James. Areas in Central and South, such as St. Helena, Chaguanas, San Fernando, up to Fyzabad.”
Although this year’s season is similar to last year’s, the authority is urging the public to adopt responsible water usage measures, not only during this period but throughout, as climate patterns continue to change.