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04th
March 2010
No Water
for Cruise Ships
The
Water and Sewerage Authority (WASCO) has stopped,
as from last week, supplying cruise ships with
water when they dock in Saint Lucian ports as
a worsening water crisis continues to grip the
country.
With the country now into its dry season, water
supply in the short term, will continue to be
severely affected.
Should the situation worsens as the country
moves out of its dry season WASCO says it has
no option but to ration water even more than
is currently being done.
However WASCO is not sitting fiddling its thumbs
wondering what to do. The company is looking
at ways in which it can improve the situation.
For instance the company is working with the
government to see whether it can use the wells
at La Paradis to store water. In fact the wells
are presently being tested.
John Joseph, the company’s general manager
yesterday told The VOICE of a move by WASCO
to reinstate an intake in Vanard and is also
working at installing portable treatment plants
to help communities in the rural south.
Importing water is an option that has been explored
should the situation worsen. The VOICE understands
that the authorities have been talking to Dominica
in that regard.
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Meanwhile The
Ministry of Health, Wellness, Family Affairs,
National Mobilization, Human Services and
Gender Relations is advising persons to take
all necessary precautions to protect their
health during this current drought.
According to the Ministry water from the municipal
system (WASCO water) should be used for drinking.
In cases of inconsistent supply, pipe borne
water should be stored in clean water storage
containers. Water stored in and outside the
home should be properly covered to prevent
the breeding of mosquitoes, which are the
vectors for dengue disease.
The country’s Chief Medical Officer
Dr. Merlene Frederick notes that persons should
ensure that hands are washed in clean water
after toilet activities and before preparing
meals. Food, especially salads, fruits and
fruit juices should be prepared with clean
water to avoid the spread of diseases which
may manifest as vomiting and or diarrhea.
In cases where persons have no other option
but to obtain water directly from rivers,
such water should be boiled for at least 10
minutes before use.
Discuss
Story
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