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From:TheBahamasWeekly.com Bahamas Information Services Updates
CAT ISLAND, The Bahamas – Cat Island residents are happy to be receiving water for the first time. Water & Sewerage Corporation (WSC) Executive Chairman the Hon. Adrian Gibson led a delegation to the central Island Monday, March 15, to break ground for the provision of a reliable supply of potable water that meets World Health Organization standards. Approximately 12 miles of pipe will be installed beginning in two lots. Lot #1: Wilson Bay and Bennet Harbour and Lot #2: Douds and Moss Town ending at Old Bight. Administrator Dale Gelin thanked the Bahamas Government for making it possible for the residents to have access to potable water.
“Today is an historic and remarkable occasion that will become the impetus for future economic and social development,” he said. Pastor Vernis Storr said the new infrastructure will “ease the burden” for residents who resort to public wells because they are unable to afford a water system in their homes. “It’s good for the island in general,” said Pastor Storr. “It would help with the schools and their water supply. And it’s a plus for persons with small businesses who have to man a water system that does not always work. “For those who have a personal water system it would alleviate challenges; that consistent having to maintain, buying a new pump and always having to get a plumber to get things done.”
It is Pastor Storr’s hope that with basic infrastructure -‐-‐ water, and light -‐-‐ more Cat Islanders would be encouraged to return to the island. “This continuous falling away is not good for the island,” she opined. Glen Rolle said having access to potable water would put an end to using buckets to collect water from a well. He has been awaiting this moment for a very long time. “For the most part we use rain water or ground supply [groundwater wells]. For this to come into existence it would be a plus to the island. This is a blessing,” he said. Mr. Gibson said although the initial work will only include a fraction of the island, the WSC is committed to expanding the system and providing the entire island with water as far as possible and as future budgets would allow. “It will be delivered directly into your homes, on demand any time that you want. You don’t have to worry about drawing water from your well or about rationing,” he said.
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