St Kitts and Nevis breaks ground on second desalination plant, construction commences

Basseterre, St Kitts and Nevis: The Government of St Kitts and Nevis broke ground the construction of a 2 million galloon desalination plant on Tuesday. Through this initiative, the government is making little steps closer towards their agenda of making St Kitts and Nevis, a sustainable island state.

As per the details, this desalination plant which is located at the C.A. Paul Southwell Industrial Park and costs about $50 million is the second plant which is being undertaken by the authorities. Meanwhile, the first plant at Canada Estate is almost at its process of completion.

The donation for these two solar-powered water desalination plants was received to the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis by United Arab Emirates. These plants were a part of their UAE’s Caribbean Renewable Energy Fund (CREF) which aims to provide fresh and potable water to the residents of the country.

While sharing the glimpses of the ground breaking ceremony, Prime Minister of St Kitts and Nevis, Dr Terrance Drew noted that this had to be done otherwise the country would run out of water. He further asserted that the island nation is making stringent efforts and is committed to find viable solutions to the longstanding issue of water scarcity faced in the country.

This water situation is due to decreased rainfall, increased temperatures, and saltwater intrusion into underground wells, all as a result of the climate crisis. Therefore, the leader of the nation asserted that the construction of these plants would be a huge benefit to the citizens of the country as it would play a huge role in addressing the problem of water scarcity. The project holds the capacity to produce up to 76000 gallons of water per day, which will cater to the needs and demands of the citizens regarding water services.

The Prime Minister also pointed out the urgent need for climate justice, he stated that the cost for climate adaptation is getting unbearable for small island developing states. And, small countries are getting highly affected due to the devastations caused by climate change. He stated that all people have a right to be protected from environmental pollution and to live and enjoy a clean and healthful environment.

The Prime Minister also called out the former government and called them “a dismal failure” as they did absolutely nothing to increase the availability of water.

Also, in the groundbreaking ceremony, Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew was accompanied by senior government officials, staff of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, and other invited guests.