ST JAMES, Jamaica— The National Water Commission (NWC) says it has undertaken a project valued at $20 million which will provide access to improved water supply to approximately 1,500 residents in the rural community of Somerton in St James by the end of 2023.

The project includes the installation of two kilometres of new pipeline, interconnection into the existing network as well as pressure testing and sterilisation of the system, the NWC said.

“These works are in keeping with the NWC’s mandate of increasing and improving service. Efficiency will also be achieved as the project will greatly reduce the non-revenue water aspect as the aged infrastructure which was susceptible to multiple leaks is being replaced,” acting Regional Manager Horace Binns explained.

“Thus far, we have laid over 80 per cent of the pipes. So we are progressing well and by Christmas the areas from Cedar Hill to Windsor Lodge to Dick Common will be getting better supply,” Binns said.

He added: “As we do our part, we are taking the opportunity as well to encourage residents to prepare to do their part by applying for connection to the pipeline upon completion of the project.”