Aug 11, 2009 0
NWC Implements Stringent Water Conservation Measures
The National Water Commission (NWC) has been forced to issue a Prohibition Notice for more stringent water conservation measures to be observed, as Jamaica’s water supply has fallen to a critically low level.
According to the NWC, the measures (which came into effect yesterday – August 10), have become necessary due to the prolonged drought that is currently affecting the Hermitage Dam. The water level at this facility has now fallen to a critically low amount.
The tightened measures are in addition to restrictions that were previously implemented on August 3 – where customers now experience no or low water pressure conditions from 7 p.m. to 3:30 a.m. and again from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
The Prohibition Notice requires that persons use the treated water for only those purposes that are very essential, and to avoid the use of the commodity for irrigation of and watering of gardens, lawns and grounds; filling or supplying tanks, ponds, baths or swimming pools (other than dipping tanks for cattle); or elevated reserve tanks not exceeding 200 gallons in capacity and connected to household sewerage; watering or washing roadways, pavements, paths, garages, out rooms or vehicles.
The NWC further states that treated water should not be utilized for any purpose which may require the use of a considerable or excessive quantity of water.
Under this Notice, the prohibition will remain in effect until further notice, and while the prohibition is in effect, no person shall use or cause or permit to be used, any water supplied by or obtained from the pipes of the NWC for any of the above purposes. Any person who contravenes the Notice will be guilty of an offense and liable on summary conviction by a Resident Magistrate, to a fine, and in default of payment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 30 days.