These students put their energy to good use by playing some football after classes at the Seaforth High School, St.Thomas last Friday. These students might have to play football at home if the water situation in parts of St. Thomas isn't sorted out soon. - Peta-Gaye Clachar / Staff Photographer

ST. THOMAS:

Angry residents from the communities of Seaforth, Stewartfield, York and other neighbouring areas in St. Thomas stopped just short of closing all commercial and public activities on the weekend if their need for water was not satisfied.

Chairman of the Seaforth Community Development Association, Mr. Emerson James said "the water problem is now chronic as business places, schools (Seaforth High and Seaforth Primary school), the police station and the health clinic face closure because of the lacking in water".

The areas' citizens had issued an ultimatum to the National Water Commission (NWC) saying if they were not receiving adequate water supply by last Monday, they would be forced to call a "total shut down" on all business and public service activities.

A source from the NWC, wishing to remain anonymous, said that two pumps were damaged in separate areas of Springfield and Soho, however, information was received that these pumps were fixed.

Too many lock-offs

While water does come intermittently to the affected areas Mr. James mentioned that "the water goes away more often than it comes" and adds that it is not treated properly and has resulted in one resident having a skin infection.

In response to Mr. James statement the source within the NWC informed The Gleaner that the Springfield pumping station had malfunctioned and as a result the flow of water throughout the area had to be regulated.

Residents are, however, still questioning the response from the NWC, suggesting that a reliable water source from Whitehall was cut and the action not explained.

The source within the NWC was unable to give an answer to the final question and pointed The Gleaner in the direction of another person, who could not be contacted. Since Monday, Mr. James said there has been some improvement in the flow of water and has called off the shut down.

However, he is urging a senior representative from the NWC to arrange a meeting with himself and members of the community to inform them on the present situation.

- Michael Lee