CRISIS PREVENTION

DEPUTY PM SAYS RESTRICTIONS COMING TO AVOID WORSENING OF WATER SITUATION

By Jenique Belgrave

Come Monday, several water restrictions will be put in place to help conserve water as this country continues to face a persistent dry spell.
Insisting the island is not yet in a crisis situation, Deputy Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw announced on Friday morning that given a 40 per cent decline in rainfall and drought conditions expected to extend into June, it is now necessary to put mitigation systems in place.
“Effective from Monday 24th of April until June 30th, we are prohibiting the use of potable water for the irrigation or watering of gardens, lawns and grounds by hose or a sprinkler system. Also prohibited is the filling or supply of tanks, ponds, baths or swimming pools, other than for dipping tanks for cattle, domestic baths not exceeding 120 liters or 32 gallons in capacity and elevated reserve tanks not exceeding 800 liters or 211 gallons in capacity and connected to household sewerage or water supply systems. We’ve also prohibited washing roadways, pavements, paths, garages, outrooms or vehicles by hose. Also, prohibition is on the washing of windows and building exteriors,” she outlined.
Residents failing to comply with these restrictions will face a $500 fine or one month imprisonment.
Addressing the media gathered at the Barbados Water Authority (BWA) headquarters in the Pine, Bradshaw urged citizens to contact the agency if they see persons or companies acting in breach of the regulations.
“What you do by you is going to have a direct impact on the rest of us and therefore you have to be your brother’s keeper, but you have to be a little ‘malicious’ in these times as well to make sure that you are able to protect this valuable resource,” she added.
Bradshaw stressed the new regulations are a part of the government’s proactive measures to address the situation as the BWA noted there will be significant challenges in meeting the demand for potable water.
“If we do not take preventative measures now, Barbadians may find themselves having more catastrophic challenges later on,” she added, noting that in the upcoming weeks, a further intensification of water conservation programmes would be conducted.
jeniquebelgrave@barbadostoday.bb