In a groundbreaking step towards addressing water conservation and enhancing infrastructure management, 20 plumbing professionals from both the public and private sectors have registered to attend the RDA’s First Leak Detection Workshop, scheduled to take place this month.
The workshop is a component of the Water Optimisation Project, being implemented by the Virgin Islands Recovery Development Agency (RDA). The initiative supports the government’s ongoing efforts to improve the Territory’s water distribution network and reduce non-revenue generating water across the Territory. These efforts are aimed not only at preserving a precious resource, but also reducing the costs associated with treating and pumping water, leading to financial savings.
The initiative will also result in local capacity building in leak detection. The workshop begins on November 26 and will feature participants from both the Water and Sewerage Department (W&SD) as well as private plumbers. Participants will develop valuable leak detection skills and receive training to use the leak detection equipment, which will remain with WSD to support ongoing detection efforts.
Next, will be the in-field training which expected to be completed in 10 days. Participants will engage in hands-on equipment led by experts and will learn about modern leak detection technology, preventive maintenance techniques, and best practices in plumbing systems.
RDA’s Acting Chief Executive Officer Ms. Kinisha Forbes stated, “We are encouraged by the response from local plumbing professionals and the Water and Sewerage Department in enhancing leak detection capacities in our Territory.”
Ms. Forbes continued, “Their participation signals a collective commitment to sustainable practices and the improvement of our water network. This workshop will empower participating professionals to identify leaks early, thereby assisting in saving water and reducing costs.”
The collaboration between the public and private sector highlights the importance of unified efforts in tackling water conservation challenges and ensuring the resilience of BVI’s water network infrastructure.
The workshop will be facilitated by the Water Research Centre (WRC) Limited. The consultant will train participants to identify water leaks within the BVI water distribution system, starting with the Greater Road Town area, for both visible and non-visible leaks.
Leak Detection Training Benefits
Employing leak detection as a capacity-building exercise will empower the Water and Sewerage workforce and local plumbers with specialized skills, fostering a culture of proactive maintenance. Training in advanced leak detection technologies enhances job competencies, promotes better water management practices, and prepares the community for future challenges in water stewardship.
The project falls under the RDA’s Resilient Infrastructure Sector and the Water and Sewerage Subsector guided by the Outcome Statement: ‘A more effective water and sewerage infrastructure with an efficient supply of water and distribution systems, equitable access to a reliable water supply, and an improved sewerage network.’
For more information about the Water Optimisation Project, interested persons can visit the RDA’s website and the project’s official web page: Water Optimisation Project – Virgin Islands Recovery and Development Agency.
