THE leak repair campaign initiated by the Ministry of Housing and Water, through its agency the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), to minimize water wastage is being aggressively pursued throughout the country.

Ministry of Housing and Water Harry Narine Nawbatt told the Government Information Agency that in excess of 500 leaks have been repaired and an outstanding 25,000 are yet to be looked at.

These leaks are as a result of pipes being old or damaged by heavy equipment traversing areas where pipes are laid, the Minister said.

He urged that consumers report leakages to GWI so that corrective action can be taken in a timely manner.

There have been reports of many instances of water wastage as a result of leakages and GWI has embarked upon a campaign to conduct inspections in several communities.

Minister Nawbatt said the water company is actively pursuing a number of steps to encourage consumers to conserve on water and avoid wastage.

Meanwhile, he indicated that persons have been complaining about receiving bills that are inaccurate and said that measures are being put in place to avoid such situations.

Minister Nawbatt also highlighted that a number of car wash facilities are placed on domestic meter rates, and explained that GWI is actively undertaking steps to ensure that the facilities are appropriately rated.

Discussions are currently being conducted with GWI’s management, the Public Utilities Commission, and donor agencies to improve water supply in the country. However, there is need for stakeholders, including consumers, to get on board, he added.

Addressing the issue of non-payment by some customers, Minister Nawbatt is urging that they make contact with GWI to discuss a payment plan.