St Kitts and Nevis achieved a significant milestone with the commissioning of their much-awaited project, Cayon Well, on Friday, 10th May 2024. The administration led by PM Terrance Drew has transformed the citizens’ dream of accessing clean and potable water into a reality by completing the Cayon well.
This project is a testament to the determination and focus of the authorities towards addressing all the challenges faced by the island nation due to the long-standing water scarcity issue. Notably, the new Well can supply more than 400,000 gallons of water daily, which sheds light on the unwavering commitment and dedication of the administration towards benefitting the residents of the community as a whole.
The ceremony was initiated by Minister of Public Infrastructure Konris G Maynard, who commissioned the Well at Cabbage Tree in Cayon, St. Kitts. It was attended by several leaders of the nation, including PM Dr. Terrance Drew, Deputy PM Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, Minister of Agriculture and Sports Samal Duggins, Minister of Tourism Marsha Henderson, and many others.
The climate change problem has always remained a serious cause of concern for the island nation’s citizens. In the last 10 years, the island nation has experienced a 20% decrease in rainfall, with a 40% reduction in the last year.
Therefore, these measures undertaken by the government will play a crucial role in fulfilling the water demand of all the citizens of the island nation. Also, this Cayon well project is constructed with a vision of bringing relief to the community of Cayon as well as the residents of surrounding communities as well.
Notably, the water being supplied by the Well also meets all the required guidelines for drinking quality and safe water established by WHO (World Health Organization).
Moreover, Cromwell Williams, the Head of the Water Services Department (WSD) and Water Engineer shared about the reports of testing of the water of the Well and asserted that the quality is not just okay but is exceptionally good.
He also added that the water contained no harmful bacteria and had a pH level of 7.4, which is very close to the pure water value. He ensured that the people of the Cayon community can keep their full confidence in the quality of water supplies as it is absolutely safe to consume.
The ceremony was also attended by the students from Cayon Primary and Cayon High School. The students were very excited to receive the water supply as they had been experiencing a water shortage for decades.
Minister of Public Infrastructure Konris Maynard also mentioned the commencing of a small desalination plant at Canada Estate and also added that they are planning to conduct a helicopter geophysical survey in the following week in order to identify the potential wells in St. Kitts and Nevis, which can be further used for providing the citizens with the clean water facilities.
