safety steps

CABINET NOTES: The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda today received a comprehensive briefing from General Manager of the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA), Mr. John Bradshaw, and Acting Water Business Unit Manager, Mr. Jason Peters, on the current status of the national water supply system and ongoing efforts to strengthen water distribution across the country.

During the presentation, Cabinet was informed of the challenges facing the country’s water infrastructure, including limited storage capacity, aging pipelines, and the need for improved pressure and flow management, particularly during periods of high demand and dry weather conditions.

The APUA team outlined the vulnerability of certain areas, especially central, eastern, and south-eastern communities, and explained how elevation and pressure limitations affect regular water delivery.

Mr. Bradshaw advised Cabinet that APUA is actively implementing measures to mitigate shortages, including the upgrading of pumps, the installation of booster stations, and improvements to pressure-management systems.

These interventions are designed to ensure more consistent distribution and to better support weaker areas of the network.

The Acting Water Manager, Mr. Jason Peters, highlighted the importance of semi-automation and eventual full automation of key components of the water distribution system.

Cabinet was told that automation would significantly reduce service disruptions, minimize pipe ruptures caused by excessive pressure, and allow for real-time monitoring and control of water flow across the island.  Cabinet immediately approved the allocation of financing for the procurement of an automation system.

Cabinet was further advised that APUA has already made progress in modernizing some facilities and is working to close existing gaps in the system by the end of the first quarter of this year.

Plans are also underway to expand storage capacity and to integrate additional infrastructure to improve resilience in the event of plant outages or prolonged dry conditions.

Cabinet welcomed the detailed presentation and emphasized the need for a comprehensive, prioritized strategy to be submitted, outlining immediate, medium-term, and long-term solutions.

Members reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting APUA’s efforts to deliver a more reliable, efficient, and sustainable water supply for residents, businesses, and the tourism sector.

The public is assured that the Government and APUA will continue to keep citizens informed as these works progress and as further improvements to the national water system are rolled out.