Imagine living in a time before readily available tap water. The story of the Waterwork in Castries is a story of progress and essential infrastructure. Before 1965, water supply was the responsibility of the Castries City Council. Records show pipe borne water first came to Castries in April 1848. Before this, people relied on rivers streams and ponds for water.
The Central Water Authority CWA started in 1965. It was under the Ministry of Health. The CWA was responsible for providing portable water. It also managed water resources. The Water Authority Act No 24 of 1964 constituted it.
In 1984 the government made the CWA a statutory body. It was responsible for water and sewerage services. It was renamed the Water and Sewerage Authority WASA. WASA reported to the Ministry of Communications Transport and Public Utilities. WASA undertook several projects. These included the construction of the John Compton Dam in Roseau.
The Sarot Treatment Plant was commissioned in 1972. A 14-inch Ductile Iron Transmission main was built. It ran from a one million gallon storage tank at Ciceron to Cap Estate. This facility served residents from Castries to Cap Estate. This lasted from 1992 to 1993. Then the new Thomas R Theobalds Treatment Plant at Ciceron was commissioned.
In October 1999 the government restructured the water sector. They established the Water and Sewerage Company Incorporated WASCO. WASCO is incorporated under the Companies Act. It is regulated under the Water and Sewerage Act of 2004.
Today WASCO is under the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries Physical Planning Natural Resources and Co-operatives. The Castries Water Works Reserve protects much of Saint Lucia’s forest. The reserve covers 1392.93 hectares. Much of the forest is mature but secondary rainforest. Human activities have modified the area. These activities include cutting firewood and squatting for agriculture. Marijuana cultivation and planting of exotic trees also occurred.
The government works with stakeholders to reduce deforestation. They also discourage squatting on forest reserves. They provide incentives for public-private partnerships. This encourages sustainable forest management. Ecotourism and sustainable harvesting of non-timber forest products are noteworthy initiatives.
The Forestry Department allowed an eco-friendly venture. This includes aerial tram tours zip lining hiking and bird watching. The local community values natural resources for tourist income. They work harder to protect these resources. Locals have found jobs at the eco-tours establishment. Their jobs depend on local conservation efforts.
A pilot project was developed with Flora and Fauna International. Resident tappers from nearby communities are involved. They conduct research into sustainable harvesting of Lansan. Lansan is produced by tapping the Lansan tree. The resin flows dries and solidifies on the bark.
The story of the Waterwork in Castries is one of ongoing development. It reflects Saint Lucia’s commitment to providing essential services. It also shows a dedication to protecting its natural resources. It’s a story of how a community adapted and grew. It ensured access to clean water for its people.