In reply to a question by MP Alan Ganoo, deputy prime minister and minister of Energy and Public Utilities, Rashid Beebeejaun stated that in May 2011, the government approved that the Singapore Cooperation Enterprise and Public Utilities Board will be appointed to develop an integrated water management framework in Mauritius.
This is with a view to achieve 24/7 potable water supply, reduce non-revenue water, and develop a plan to meet increasing and changing demands.
He added that the experts of the Singapore Cooperation Enterprise and Public Utilities Board are expected to start their assignment next week and will submit a report at the end of six months.
Ganoo also wanted to know whether the government is paying any fees to the Singapore Cooperation Enterprise and Public Utilities Board.
Beebeejaun replied that this project is being done in cooperation with Singapore and no fee is being paid. The minister added that the Singapore team proposed a two-phased approach.
The first phase will consist of the development of a strategic water sector plan, development of institutional structure, development of operations and maintenance strategic framework. The first phase also consists of capacity building and overall programme management.
The project is a result of Prime Minister Dr Navin Ramgoolam’s visit to Singapore in September 2010 and the high level talks he had with the Singapore authorities.
The concerned ministry approached the Singapore Cooperation Enterprise and Public Utilities Board to assist them to improve the management of water services.
During President of Singapore SR Nathan’s recent visit to Mauritius, the issue of water was on the agenda