Water Rationing Implemented in The Valley, Virgin Gorda as Water Production Plant Struggles to Meet Demands

Water rationing measures have been put in place in The Valley in Virgin Gorda as the water production plant in Handsome Bay struggles to meet the water demands of the community.

The Ministry of Communications and Works in a statement released on September 21 said the government is seeking to engage a reputable and qualified company through a public-private partnership to replace and upgrade the water distribution network to ensure a more reliable and efficient water supply for the affected area.

The Ministry noted that residents in The Valley, Virgin Gorda have been grappling with a severe water shortage due to multiple factors, including inadequate water production, an insufficient distribution system, and the infiltration of Sargassum seaweed.

According to the statement, the current operational capacity of the water production plant operated by Aqua Design is unable to meet the demands of the community. As a result, water rationing has been implemented in the area.

The Sargassum seaweed build-up in the area has further exacerbated the water supply problem forcing the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change to procure a floating physical barrier, known as a boom, to prevent Sargassum from entering Handsome Bay. The installation of this barrier is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Additionally, Aqua Design has partnered with a local dive company to make modifications to the intake structure, reducing the impact of the seaweed. The company has also ordered new membranes that will enhance the plant’s daily production. Once these parts are received and installed, the plant’s daily capacity will increase to approximately 430,000 imperial gallons per day by mid-December.

The Ministry and Aqua Design are committed to resolving the water scarcity problem and providing a more reliable and consistent water supply to the residents of the Valley in Virgin Gorda. They apologise for any inconvenience caused and assure the community that efforts are underway to alleviate the situation.