By Sue-Ann Wayow
CITIZENS are being reminded of a planned shutdown of the Point Lisas Desalination Plant this month to facilitate maintenance works.
The Desalination Company of Trinidad and Tobago (Desalcott) has advised the Water and Sewerage Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (WASA), that the shutdown is scheduled to take place from August 18 to August 24.
This is in keeping with the announcement made last month that following collaborative discussions with WASA and the Ministry of Public Utilities, Desalcott agreed to adjust its maintenance to take place in August, as opposed to varying times in either the month of September, October or November, as has occurred in previous years and during times of festivities.
The Desalcott-owned and operated plant, provides 40 million gallons daily to WASA, which is used to supply the Point Lisas Industrial Estate, as well as augment the supply to areas in Central and South Trinidad.
WASA via media release on Wednesday stated to mitigate the effects of the supply shortfall on operations, several measures will be implemented during the shutdown period.
These include:
1. Re-distribution of supply from the Caroni and Navet Water Treatment Plants
2. Implementation of temporary supply schedules published on social media pages
3. Ensure capacity storage at critical service reservoirs prior to the shutdown
4. Increased water trucking capacity
5. Special emphasis and arrangements to supply health institutions, homes for aged and other special needs organisations
Some of the affected areas will include: Caroni, St Helena, Charlieville, Chaguanas, Cunupia, Carapichaima, Couva, Claxton Bay, Marabella, Gasparillo, San Fernando, Cocoyea, Union Hall, La Romaine, Woodland, Palmiste, Phillipine, Rambert Village, South Oropouche, Fyzabad, Avocat, Siparia, Penal, San Francique, Rousillac, Aripero and La Brea.
Customers are advised to maintain/establish a system of storage over the period of the shutdown and to also manage their water use efficiently, by reducing consumption through the observation of water conservation practices.
A limited truck-borne water supply will be available upon request, with priority being given to health care and special needs institutions.
This can be requested through the self-service option: Customer Portal available on the Authority’s website: www.wasa.gov.tt.
Alternatively, customers requiring a truck borne supply, direct assistance or further information can contact WASA’s Customer Call Centre toll free at 800-4420/4426.
