safety steps

𝗝𝗢𝗜𝗡 𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧𝗦𝗔𝗣𝗣 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗟! 𝗖𝗟𝗜𝗖𝗞 𝗢𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗞: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaN7nmQGOj9na4QhBa12

ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – December 12, 2025:The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA), Telecoms Business Unit, is providing an update following recent developments related to preparatory civil works for the subsea cable landing at Morris Bay, Old Road.

On October 14, 2025, APUA hosted a town hall meeting and engaged residents of Old Road in dialogue regarding the planned landing of the subsea cable at Morris Bay.

These discussions formed part of APUA’s commitment to transparency and community engagement, and community feedback received at that time was largely supportive of the project.

The preparatory phase requires APUA to undertake limited civil works in the area, including the construction of a beach manhole and the establishment of an equipment shelter located opposite Morris Bay. Earlier this month, APUA Telecoms’ teams were mobilised to commence these activities.

To facilitate the works, it was necessary to cut the main road at Morris Bay to allow for the installation of conduits in preparation for the subsea cable. This required a temporary traffic diversion.

Due to the interruption of works, the duration of the diversion has been extended, resulting in increased inconvenience to motorists and residents.

APUA sincerely apologises for this inconvenience and assures the public that every effort will be made to complete the required works as efficiently as possible once it is safe to do so.

On Wednesday, December 10, 2025, while APUA personnel were on site, an unrelated situation involving residents and the Development Control Authority arose in the same vicinity.

APUA teams returned to the site on Thursday, December 11, 2025, but were again required to withdraw in the interest of safety. As tensions escalated, work was suspended to protect personnel and the public.

When teams returned to the area on Friday, December 12, 2025, to resume operations, it was discovered that conduits and other project materials had been deliberately set on fire. Preliminary
assessments indicate that the damage amounts to several thousand dollars.

APUA strongly condemns any actions that compromise the safety of its workers, as well as the destruction of property. The Authority remains deeply concerned about ensuring that its teams are able to operate in a safe and non-hostile environment while carrying out essential national infrastructure works.

Despite this setback, APUA reaffirms its commitment to the residents of Old Road and to continued engagement grounded in cooperation, dialogue, and mutual respect.

The subsea cable project represents a critical national investment that will significantly enhance Antigua and Barbuda’s digital resilience, supporting commerce, business continuity, education, and overall economic development.

All citizens stand to benefit from this project once it is commissioned, with full operational launch expected in 2027.

APUA therefore appeals for calm and cooperation and respectfully calls on all parties to desist from further damage to project assets, as the Authority works to recover from this incident and continue the project in accordance with established timelines and in the national interest.