The National Water Commission (NWC) is focused on restoring water access to 30,000 customers affected by Hurricane Melissa. Minister of Water, Environment, and Climate Change, Matthew Samuda, shared that they aim to halve this number in the next three weeks.
So far, about 95% of customers have received water again since the hurricane hit on October 28. In the first few days post-storm, roughly 60% of the affected areas saw restoration because major systems cater to larger populations.
The remaining 30,000 customers live in rural locations such as Westmoreland, St. Elizabeth, and the hilly regions of St. James, where challenges persist. There are also efforts underway to restore systems in southern Trelawny.
Minister Samuda praised the NWC teams for their dedication. Many team members are personally affected, having lost their homes, yet they continue to work tirelessly. “Their commitment to community is truly remarkable,” he noted.
In recent discussions, water shortages have sparked conversations on social media. Many users share their experiences and frustrations, but there’s also an outpouring of support for NWC workers. This shows a community rallying together during tough times.
Access to clean water is crucial. According to a recent report from the World Health Organization, nearly 2 billion people worldwide lack safe drinking water, emphasizing the importance of reliable services. The NWC’s goal is to provide consistent, high-quality water and sewerage services to support national development.
By working together and showing appreciation for frontline workers, we can rebuild stronger communities.
For detailed insights on water accessibility, check WHO’s report.
