Minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Senator Matthew Samuda conducted a tour Wednesday of pipes and fittings slated to be deployed to major water infrastructure projects across St Mary, St Ann and Manchester.

The pipes, valued at over US$1.9 million, underscore the government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing water supply resilience across the island, according to the ministry in a press release.

Samuda emphasised the importance of this investment during a tour of the newly arrived pipes at the NWC’s Mona Treatment Plant.

“These massive pipes represent a significant investment of the Government of Jamaica through the NWC and is a testament to the well-run operations of the Commission. We are committed to building a resilient water system that will benefit the people of Jamaica for the next 30 years,” he stated.

The pipes and fittings will be allocated to four components of three major water infrastructure projects across the island.

Areas to benefit include the Jordan Run to Agualta Vale Pumping Station and the Agualta Vale to Highgate Transmission Main Rehabilitation in St Mary.

“These pipes will benefit over 30,000 residents in St. Mary alone, transforming their water supply systems and ensuring consistent and reliable service,” the minister added.

The pipes will also be deployed to the second phase of the Exchange Water Supply System in St Ann, which will see over five kilometres of 10-inch pipes being installed above Exchange All Age going in the direction of Upton.

“The community there has waited a very long time and no doubt they will eagerly anticipate delivery of pipes and commencement of work in this area,” Samuda stated.

In Manchester, the Greater Mandeville Water Supply System – Old Pepper Well Station to Gutters Pump Station in Manchester, will see comprehensive upgrades, including the installation of new pumps, relief stations, and the development of the Old Pepper Well site. These enhancements are expected to significantly improve water distribution across Manchester, into Eastern St Elizabeth.

These projects are collectively valued at over US$1.9 million.

Meanwhile, Acting NWC President, Garth Jackson, expressed confidence in the timely execution of these projects, stating that “with the pipes now on the ground, we are poised to commence work shortly. This is part of our broader strategy to ensure that all Jamaicans have access to reliable and safe water.”

The current shipment underscores the NWC’s strategic commitment to achieving the Vision 2030 goals, specifically targeting 85 per cent coverage in piped networks, increasing water supply reliability, and reducing its non-revenue water index.