DOWASCO has announced that the majority of materials—including pipes, fittings, and related appurtenances—for the eagerly awaited Water Sector Strategic Development Project (WSSDP) have arrived in Dominica. The company shared via press release that preparatory work is now in progress to enhance water supply systems in several communities throughout the island.
The WSSDP is being implemented by DOWASCO with financial backing from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) as part of the United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Fund (UKCIF) Programme. This funding was pledged by the UK Government in response to the destruction caused by Hurricane Maria.
In addition to upgrading water infrastructure, the WSSDP is expected to generate employment opportunities for numerous residents in the affected communities, shared the report. DOWASCO says it is actively recruiting Community Liaison Officers (CLOs), site technicians, and both skilled and unskilled temporary workers to begin on-site operations.
Local contractors will also be invited to submit bids for various elements of the project. The initiative aims to significantly enhance water infrastructure in areas such as Castle Bruce, Grand Fond, Riviere Cyrique, Morne Jaune, the West Coast (including Salisbury, Coulibistrie, and Grand Savanne), and Calibishie. According to the press release, upgrades are intended to provide a more reliable, efficient, and sustainable water supply to the communities involved.
As part of the initial phase of the project, groundwork has already commenced in Grand Fond, where rehabilitation of the access road to the water intake is currently underway. This represents the first step in what is expected to be a transformative effort for the local communities says DOWASCO.
Further updates will be shared as the project moves forward.
