President Abinader announces record RD 21,000 million investment in water sector

Santo Domingo.- During the President of the Republic Luis Abinader’s annual report to the National Assembly, he revealed that the government has allocated over RD 21,000 million in the water sector within the first three years of its tenure, with RD 9,000 million dedicated in 2023 alone. Addressing the assembly, President Abinader emphasized the country’s growing water stress and the need for proactive measures.

President Abinader highlighted the historic nature of the investments, stating, “This year, we invested RD 9,600 million pesos, bringing the total to RD 21,000 million in three years. This figure is tripled when compared to the last eight years. Furthermore, we have over 200 ongoing projects amounting to more than RD 25,000 million pesos.”

He underscored the efforts of the Water and Sewerage Corporation (CAASD), revealing that in 2023, the CAASD achieved a record-breaking daily water production of 470 million gallons, an increase of 86 million gallons from previous figures. This accomplishment enabled the extension of piped water to more than 70 communities, positively impacting 500,000 residents in Greater Santo Domingo.

To enhance water quality, President Abinader informed that the CAASD replaced 108,305 linear meters of pipes and installed 12,720 connections in 2023 for Greater Santo Domingo and the National District.

Acknowledging the increasing water stress, President Abinader emphasized the government’s commitment to unprecedented public investment in water infrastructure, drinking water, and sanitation systems. He recalled the signing of the water pact in August, describing it as a long-term commitment to nature, future generations, and the well-being of the population.

President Abinader further discussed significant projects, including the Gurabo stream sanitation in Santiago, led by the National Institute of Drinking Water and Sewers (Inapa). He highlighted the completion of the first two phases and its potential to improve the lives of thousands of families previously in high vulnerability.

Inapa’s extensive pipeline efforts were also mentioned, with 845 kilometers laid in 2023 alone, totaling 2,100 km over three years. The President emphasized the positive impact on the lives of over 2.2 million people.

Other notable projects include the rehabilitation of the Salinity Barrier aqueduct, the San Antonio de Guerra municipality aqueduct, and the La Cuaba aqueduct, set to significantly increase drinking water production.

President Abinader concluded by highlighting the ongoing work in ravine intervention, mentioning the transformation of Guajimía, one of Santo Domingo Oeste’s most polluting ravines. The President noted the delivery of 200 apartments and the creation of environmental spaces like Cristo Park and Sabana Park, benefiting nearly 400,000 inhabitants.

Lastly, he emphasized the transformative impact of wastewater treatment plant rehabilitations, citing examples in Prados de San Luis and Hainamosa, positively affecting the lives of more than 200,000 people in Santo Domingo East.