PUC hosts open day at La Gogue dam |24 March 2023
A group of people got a chance to see the new La Gogue dam up close this week, during an open day organised by the Public Utilities Corporation to mark World Water Day on March 22.
They were able to tour the new infrastructure and see the work done to raise the dam by six metres, subsequently increasing its capacity by 60%.
According to Public Utilities Corporation’s (PUC) public relations officer, Brigitte Payet, the visit was to help the visitors develop a wider appreciation of works undertaken by the company at the dam, from 2018 to date.
“We wanted to provide the visitors with an insight into PUC's ongoing efforts to fill the dam, which to date is slightly over 55%, as well as promote awareness of the importance of this project and allow them to develop a better understanding of the emergency preparedness plan in line with works being undertaken to commission the dam,” said Mrs Payet.
PUC and other partners had recently held meetings with residents of the area to apprise them of the emergency plan in place for the La Gogue dam.
François Pon-Waye, a resident of Anse Etoile,was among those who attended the emergency preparedness plan and who was also present at the open day.
"Since my residence falls within the flood path PUC mentioned at the meeting, I was eager to see the dam for myself. I was impressed with what I saw, and I hope the dam is as strong as it looks. Overall, it was a fantastic opportunity,” said Mr Pon-Waye.
The other visitors were also impressed with work carried out to date. Mariel Racombo said the tour was well organised as she had the chance to better understand how the whole system works.
“More open days should be organised for the public when the dam is fully up and running for us to view how it really works especially the spillage part," said Ms Racombo.
For his part, Hendrick Telemaque said that overall, the finishing looks good. “We have been told that constant monitoring will be undertaken, and I hope that this is maintained. The area is fenced and the grounds at La Gogue dam should remain a restricted area to avoid instances of pollution," suggested Mr Telemaque.
Altogether PUC held four guided tours at the dam as part of activities, in line with the United Nations’ emphasis on accelerating change to solve the water and sanitation crisis. This year’s World Water Day called on individuals to make a difference by changing the way they use, consume and manage water in their lives.
PUC also organised a recruitment fair in Victoria to showcase its various services and products.
The accompanying photos show a group of visitors during one of the tours.
PUC / Patsy Canaya
Photos courtesy of PUC