The island of Saint Lucia is facing a dire water crisis, prompting authorities to declare a water-related emergency across the island. The Water and Sewerage Company Inc. (WASCO), Saint Lucia’s water provider, issued the emergency declaration on Tuesday after consultations with key stakeholders.
Addressing the nation in a press conference, WASCO’s CEO cited “the exceptional shortage of rain throughout the island and a serious deficiency of supplies of water which is affecting the entire island” as the driving factors behind the unprecedented move.
George explained that the Declaration of Water-Related Emergency, issued under the Water and Sewerage Act, aims to reduce wastage of potable water and prevent contamination of water sources through prompt coordination and regulation.
The declaration, effective May 14, prohibits the use of potable water for non-potable purposes such as vehicle washing, lawn and garden watering, concrete mixing, block making, pressure washing, and filling swimming pools. Residents are urged to cease any activity that may lead to water contamination.
WASCO has reported a drastic reduction in water levels at both northern and southern intakes and reservoirs, with some dropping by as much as 75%.
Jason Ernest, Director of the Water Resources Management Agency, underscored the gravity of the situation, noting that this is the fourth water emergency declared in Saint Lucia in the past decade, with the last one occurring in 2020.
“It is not business as usual!” Ernest declared, outlining the impending restrictions and appealing to the public for cooperation in adhering to the measures aimed at managing the water crisis through collective effort.