GWI says 10 sewerage pumps clogged

The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) says 10 of its 23 sewerage stations are currently out of operation due to the pumps being clogged, however; they will be operational by month end.

In a press release the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) said it engaged the GWI on the issue after receiving a number of complaints about overflowing sewage in the city. GWI advised the agency that 13 of 23 sewerage stations are fully operational and the pumps of the 10 non-functioning ones are clogged because persons have dumped plastics and other waste material into the sewerage system. GWI also said it expects the pumps to be back in operation by October 31.

“The PUC views the efficient operation of the sewerage system as vital,” it said, adding that while it would continue to monitor the performance of GWI, residents must ensure that the sewerage system is not abused as this poses a threat to public health. As such the PUC joins GWI in appealing to the public to desist from dumping material other than that intended for the sewerage system in manholes and gullies. Additionally, residents are asked to ensure that manholes on their premises are properly covered to avoid unwanted material such as plastic, cloth and other household waste from entering and blocking the sewerage system.

The PUC also reminds the public that it is committed to regulating utilities for efficient services and protecting consumers’ interest. The PUC can be contacted at its office located at 298 Church Street, Queenstown or on telephone number 226-7042. The public is also invited to engage the agency through its website located at www.puc.org.gy