Rymer working hard to fix water challenges — Premier

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley said the government is actively addressing longstanding water distribution challenges across the territory.

Dr Wheatley expressed confidence in the efforts led by Communications and Works Minister Kye Rymer to enhance the water supply system.

Premier Wheatley acknowledged the existing issues within the water distribution network, noting that Minister Rymer is “working assiduously to solve those challenges.”

He highlighted the installation of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes in various areas as a significant step towards improvement. However, he also mentioned that water interruptions may occur during maintenance activities or when managing reservoir levels. Despite these challenges, the Premier remains optimistic.

“I’m confident that the minister, with the resources that he has been given, will be able to make a serious improvement to the water distribution network.”

The BVI has faced persistent water supply issues, with residents and businesses experiencing frequent disruptions. In July 2023, Third District Representative and now-Deputy Premier Julian Fraser emphasised the urgency of the situation, suggesting that the water issue is more critical than road conditions.

He remarked, “I believe more people would prefer to drop in a pothole and take a bath when they get home than to drop in a pothole and not be able to take a bath when they get home.”

The government initiated several measures to address the water crisis in response to these concerns. In February 2024, the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) invited qualified consulting firms to undertake leak detection and remediation works on Tortola’s water network. The primary objective was to develop local contractors and Water and Sewerage Department staff to manage leak detection and remediation within the BVI effectively.

Additionally, in July 2023, Minister Rymer announced plans to hire a private company to overhaul the territory’s entire water distribution network. That decision stems from challenges such as ageing infrastructure and a shortage of personnel to manage emergencies like pipeline leaks. Minister Rymer noted that while partnerships with operators like Seven Seas have addressed some issues, the underlying problem of deteriorating infrastructure remains.

Despite these efforts, some community members have expressed frustration over the ongoing water shortages. Sixth District Representative Myron Walwyn urged the government to take full responsibility for the water crisis, stating,

“We have a major problem that is affecting the quality of life for our people, get it fixed. It’s high time!”