JVD residents given standpipe for potable water during disruptions

Residents of Jost Van Dyke agreed to the construction of a standpipe to provide access to potable water during supply interruptions, Minister for Communications and Works Kye Rymer has said, confirming that water is now available for purchase.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Rymer said residents supported the arrangement at a community meeting held roughly two months. The standpipe is reportedly located near the Water and Sewerage Department.

“During a community meeting held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, residents agreed that constructing a standpipe would provide a dependable alternative and help ensure access to water during any future interruptions,” he explained.

Under the arrangement outlined by Rymer, residents can purchase potable water from the standpipe Monday to Friday, between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm.

Residents wishing to use the service should contact the department on 1 (284) 468-9429. A representative will record the meter information, issue an invoice and process payment under the department’s billing procedures.

Rymer thanked residents for their patience and cooperation as the ministry continues work to improve the reliability and resilience of the water-distribution system.

His response comes after widely circulated reports that residents on the sister island resorted to bathing in the sea for personal hygiene. Kross Talk host Tyler Levons raised those reports during an interview with Third District National Democratic Party candidate Aaron Parillon.

Rymer attributed the interruption on Jost Van Dyke to leaks in the water network.

“Water production has never been the challenge on Jost Van Dyke,” Rymer stated.

He said a leak developed between the treatment plant and the reservoir, requiring the Water and Sewerage Department’s technical team to investigate.

As an interim measure, the department pumped water directly through the distribution line. That line also developed leaks because of the age of the infrastructure, causing a temporary interruption to regular distribution.

“I am pleased to restate that the issue has since been rectified,” Rymer shared.

The island’s water difficulties had previously reached the House of Assembly. Second District Representative Melvin “Mitch” Turnbull told lawmakers residents had endured three-and-a-half weeks without running water, with some bathing in seawater and businesses closing. He said residents had proposed a water truck and a standpipe as practical responses during an emergency community meeting.