Two new wells will be constructed in Overland, North Windward, as part of the Volcano Eruption Emergency Project (VEEP), an initiative funded by the World Bank. The announcement was made by Project Engineer Nerissa Fergus during a community consultation on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.
Fergus explained that the project, in partnership with the Central Water and Sewerage Authority (CWSA), aims to provide residents with a reliable and continuous supply of clean water, even during natural disasters.
“The project includes drilling two wells in Overland, treating and pumping the water through newly installed pipelines, and distributing it to several water tanks that will be built during the project’s course,” Fergus said.
Significant Benefits for Residents
The VEEP initiative has already provided substantial support to North Windward communities affected by the 2021 eruptions of La Soufriere. Fergus highlighted the financial aid provided to over 4,000 households, including 1,600 residents in the area.
In addition, more than 600 residents received life skills coaching through the Ministry of National Mobilization, equipping them with tools for resilience and self-sufficiency.
Infrastructure and Monitoring Upgrades
The consultation also outlined plans for the construction of permanent bridges in Noel and Overland. Fergus noted that the project is upgrading all satellite warehouses in the region to enhance monitoring and preparedness related to La Soufriere volcanic activity.
International Support for Recovery
Launched in December 2021, VEEP is designed to aid St. Vincent and the Grenadines in emergency recovery and restoring essential services to communities impacted by the volcanic eruptions.
The project is financed through a US$40 million credit from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA) and US$2 million in EU grants. The initiative is scheduled to conclude by December 30, 2026.
With clean water access, financial aid, and infrastructure upgrades, VEEP continues to play a critical role in bolstering recovery and resilience in North Windward.