Residents of the Virgin Islands are urged to be mindful that water is a basic human right, as the Territory joins in the global observation of World Water Day on Friday, March 22.

Marine Biologist of the Conservation and Fisheries Department Ms. Horton said, “while the BVI cannot be compared to the global 80% of people who have to use unsafe and unprotected water sources,  having access to safe, clean and sanitized drinking water is a human right for personal and domestic use.”   

Ms. Horton added, “The theme for World Water Day “Leaving no one behind” represents a promise of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development which aims to ensure availability and sustainable management of water for all by 2030.”

Meanwhile, Director of Water & Sewerage Department, Mrs. Perline Scatliffe-Leonard said one of the main goals of the department is to ensure that its infrastructure is expanded throughout all communities, thereby providing this option for all residents to be connected to the public water network.

Mrs. Leonard stated, “The Town and Country Planning Department has been working with the department by providing us with relevant information on the types of development on Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada and Jost Van Dyke. This information would certainly help us to effectively plan the expansion of our water distribution network in the relevant areas, ahead of the actually construction of such developments.”

World Water Day is observed annually on March 22. The day was organised by the United Nations for the international focus on water related issues.  This year’s theme focuses on tackling the water crisis by ensuring no one is left behind but that regulatory and legal frameworks and funding is fairly and effectively targeted to those who need it most.

The Water and Sewerage Department and the Conservation and Fisheries Department collaboratively sponsor efforts locally to raise awareness of water management and preservation.

World Water Day Flyer:  (Photo Credit: Provided)