Over 37,000 in Guadeloupe Deprived of Water After Malicious Acts on Network
Problem Overview:
On Thursday, February 20th, 2023, approximately 10% of Guadeloupe’s population – more than 37,000 people – remained without access to potable water due to malicious acts perpetrated on the network. The prefecture has confirmed this information.
Investigation and Cause:
After the theft of equipment from a pumping site on Tuesday night, an investigation was launched into the case, classified as "theft." The theft has disrupted water supply to a significant portion of Grande-Terre.
Attempts at Restoration:
Reestablishment of water supply to households has been gradual, hindered by pressure drops in one of the archipelago’s largest pipelines, supplying nearly 40% of the population.
The SMGEAG (Syndicat Mixte de Gestion des Eaux et de l’Assainissement de la Guadeloupe) continues to investigate the cause of the pressure drop.
Emergency Measures:
On February 21st, 2023, 33 pallets of water were expected to be delivered by the SMGEAG, along with plans to fill cisterns in the commune of Gosier. Additionally, 29 pallets had already been distributed to affected municipalities.
Some tourist-heavy areas, including Sainte-Anne and Saint-François, were expected to benefit from a rotation of water supply that evening, with normal distribution anticipated the following morning.
The prefecture has extended its requisition of SMGEAG staff until at least Friday, February 24th, 2023. This requisition may continue through the weekend, depending on negotiation progress.
Background and Context:
The water network sabotage took place amidst an ongoing strike by SMGEAG agents since late January. The agents’ demands revolve around their health and pension plans.
While negotiations have reached an impasse, a meeting is scheduled for Friday, February 24th, 2023, between staff representatives and the four governance bodies of the SMGEAG: the water utility management, the state representative, and representatives of the region and department. The latter have remained silent throughout the crisis.
Precautionary Measures:
In an effort to prevent further malicious acts, the prefecture has announced that "sensitive" sites will be secured overnight from Thursday to Friday.
Additional Information and Resources:
- SMGEAG website: https://www.smgeag.fr/
- Guadeloupe prefecture website: https://www.guadeloupe.gouv.fr/
- Local news coverage: https://la1ere.francetvinfo.fr/guadeloupe/
