By Codrian Simmions
For the third time in less than two weeks, the regular school day in North Leeward has been seriously impacted by a water supply issue. In some instances, schools were compelled to shut down for the entire day. This ongoing problem is unacceptable and should not become the norm. A child’s education should never be compromised due to an issue that can and must be resolved.
Reports from the Central Water and Sewerage Authority (CWSA) indicate that the root cause of the disruptions is the instability of the Copeland Mountain area in Rose Hall. Since January 25, 2025, there have been multiple landslides in this area, each causing significant damage to the transmission main pipeline. These landslides have allegedly been triggered by a construction company that has been damaging the roads and dumping sand on the embankment for several months, resulting in dangerous slippages. This negligence has also made it difficult for farmers to access their lands. The damaged roads force them to carry their farm supplies on their backs and heads instead of using small vehicles. The destruction of these access routes not only hinders their ability to transport produce but also places additional physical strain on them, ultimately impacting their livelihoods. Each time heavy rains fall, loose dirt shifts, leading to further damage to the pipeline and cutting off the water supply to communities from Spring Village to Richmond.
The latest report from the CWSA, dated February 3, 2025, confirmed another pipeline break caused by additional earth movements. Although their teams have been deployed to make repairs, they are were also providing water to the affected communities as a temporary relief measure. However, this approach is not a sustainable solution.
A Crisis Affecting Education
The repeated water shortages are taking a serious toll on schools in North Leeward. Without access to a reliable water supply, schools have no choice but to dismiss students early or shut down completely, severely disrupting learning. This cycle of interruptions is not only frustrating for teachers and parents but also detrimental to students, who are being deprived of valuable classroom time.
The crisis is worsened by inadequate and often nonexistent water infrastructure in many schools. Numerous water tanks that are supposed to serve as backup sources are nonfunctional, and some schools lack tanks altogether. Consequently, even a brief water outage leads to an immediate suspension of school operations. This situation underscores a lack of long-term planning and a failure to provide institutions with the necessary facilities to withstand disruptions.
Wider Impacts on the Community
The consequences of water shortages reach far beyond the classrooms. In North Leeward, many schools serve as emergency shelters during disasters. Without a reliable water supply, these shelters become unsuitable for habitation, creating significant health risks for evacuees during emergencies. If a crisis were to occur today, the absence of water could result in sanitation problems, hygiene issues, and a heightened risk of illnesses.
Businesses in the affected communities are also suffering. Many have been forced to close their doors due to the water disruptions, leading to loss of income and economic strain. Whether it’s restaurants, shops, or service providers, the ripple effect of poor water management is being felt throughout North Leeward.
A Pattern of Neglect and Short-Sightedness
This water crisis is not a new problem, it is a symptom of a larger issue: lack of planning and short-sighted decision-making. North Leeward has faced severe water shortages in the past, particularly following the La Soufriere volcanic eruption in April 2021 and Hurricane Beryl on July 1, 2024. Yet, despite these past disasters, no comprehensive or preventative measures have been put in place to protect schools and communities from recurring water disruptions.
How many more times must students be sent home, businesses be forced to close, and families be left without water before real action is taken?
A Call for Immediate Action
The instability in the Copeland Mountain area is a major concern, and if the allegations of poor construction practices are true, those responsible must be held accountable. Immediate action must be taken to stabilize the land and prevent further slippages.
Additionally, the government, the CWSA, and relevant authorities must:
• Reinforce the pipeline network to prevent continuous breakages.
• Ensure all schools have properly installed and functioning backup water systems.
• Develop a sustainable contingency plan so that schools and businesses can remain operational during disruptions.
• Strengthen emergency shelter facilities to ensure they are adequately equipped with water supplies.
• Investigate and hold accountable those whose negligence has led to road destruction and accessibility issues for farmers.
The time for temporary fixes is over.! It is time for real, lasting solutions. The people of North Leeward, especially the children, deserve better.