Questioning the Value: The Struggle with Water Quality and Service in Guyana

After encountering a post from News Source on Facebook this morning about the Guyana Water Inc’s disconnection schedule, it prompted me to question what exactly we are paying for.

Here’s the notice from GWI regarding disconnections, dated 10th March 2024:

“Residents of Region 4, Georgetown, please note that GWI will be initiating a door-to-door disconnection campaign from 10th to 17th April, covering areas including Agricola, Bourda, Charlestown, and several others. Customers with overdue balances are encouraged to settle their accounts to avoid disconnection.”

The inconsistency in water supply, largely due to frequent power outages, results in an unpredictable flow of water. Moreover, the quality of the water supplied is concerning.

To add insult to injury, some of the meters are not maintained or in working condition. The miasma and colour of the water is unbecoming. It’s disheartening to even think that this commodity is fit for human consumption and use.

Additionally, issues with maintenance or functionality of some meters contribute to the problem. The unpleasant odor and colour of the water raise doubts about its suitability for consumption and use. Washing with this water often results in stained white clothes, driving some to rely on rainwater for their needs.

For years, many in Guyana have resorted to buying purified water for drinking. However, this leaves those who can’t afford it with no choice but to use the untreated water.

The list of grievances includes the additional cost of purchasing clean drinking water, coping with frequent service interruptions, lack of proper communication, absence of rebates, and facing higher bills despite the numerous disruptions to water supply.

It’s disheartening for Guyanese to endure poor water quality and yet be obligated to timely pay utility bills or risk disconnection. We deserve better service and respect as consumers. The current state of affairs significantly undermines our confidence in our service providers.