Water upgrade brings relief to Great Falls residents

About 250 residents of Great Falls in Region 10 now have access to safe, reliable water following the commissioning of an upgraded water supply system on Friday.

Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar, formally opened the $15 million facility, which delivers water directly to the homes of roughly 95 per cent of the village. The remaining households continue to access potable water through existing standpipes at the riverbank.

The project included the development of the existing well, installation of a photovoltaic pumping system, and full rehabilitation of the well and trestle site. Residents, as well as workers at the local primary school and health centre, are expected to benefit from improved water security.

Village Toshao Sydney Allicock said the community had long relied on river water polluted by mining activity, creating health risks. “We are thankful to the government because they have provided this well,” he said.

Indar said the project forms part of a wider government initiative to close the service gap between coastal and hinterland communities and ensure nationwide access to potable water. He said the administration’s approach prioritises practical improvements in citizens’ daily lives, particularly in remote areas where basic services are limited.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation, Guyana Water Incorporated, regional representatives, and technical staff involved in the project.