In response to the prevailing dry season affecting our island nation, Prime Minister Hon. Dickon Mitchell has taken decisive action by convening a meeting of the National Emergency Advisory Council (NEAC).
The meeting, held 10 May at NaDMA’s headquarters, addressed the urgent need to implement measures to conserve water resources and mitigate the impact of the dry spell on our communities.
Effective Sunday, 12 May 2024, the National Water and Sewerage Authority (Nawasa) will enforce water restrictions crucial for efficiently managing our water supply during this challenging period, especially with 17 of Nawasa’s water systems currently affected. They include:
- Irrigation and watering of gardens, lawns, and ground
- Washing roadways, pavements, paths, garages, outrooms, or vehicles with the use of hoses
- Filling of swimming pools and ponds, and
- Any other purpose that, in the opinion of the authority, requires the use of a considerable or excessive quantity of water
To enhance coordination and effective communication of these restrictions to the public, a task force was established. This task force includes representatives from critical sectors such as Nawasa, the Meteorological Office, Agriculture, Health, Education, the RGPF, Social Development, the Business Community, the Grenada Hotel & Tourism Association, the Government Information Service, and NaDMA. Spearheaded by National Disaster Coordinator Dr Terence Walters, the task force will convene at NaDMA’s Headquarters on, Saturday, 11 May 2024, to establish parameters for public communication and engagement.
Prime Minister Mitchell emphasises the importance of collective action and responsible water usage during this period. He urges all citizens and residents to adhere to the water restrictions and adopt water-saving practices in their daily routines.
The Royal Grenada Police Force is mandated to enforce the restrictions. Individuals found violating these measures may face penalties of up to $500 in fines and/or imprisonment for up to one month.
The Government of Grenada remains committed to safeguarding the well-being of its communities and addressing the challenges posed by the current dry season. By working together and implementing proactive measures, we can overcome these challenges and build a more resilient and sustainable future for Grenada.
Office of the Press Secretary
We don’t need another meeting again. We need desalination plants.
Agree 100%! Maybe the fancy in process of being built, and totally not needed by the way, resorts should foot the bill. Desalination isn’t cheap. Grenadians cannot afford it. Mr. PM, please we have to have a solution to our water shortage.
There was no water scarcity until the two Mitches started to encourage major developments with pools and fountains. The more developments, the less available water. This is just common sense. While it is true that the climate is changing, their policies have decreased the amount of available freshwater. Furthermore, it is reasonable to assume that the politician who correlates these issues with national security will be the next PM. Grenada deserves better.