Latest update September 17th, 2026 10:25 AM
GWI annuls bidding process for two wells
The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has annulled the bidding process for the drilling of two wells at Diamond, East Bank Demerara and at Sophia, Greater Georgetown.
The move had left contractors fuming.
Chief Executive Dr Richard van-West Charles told Kaieteur News that the decision stemmed from a need for additional research by the technical team to ascertain the best type of sleeve-cases to be used at the proposed wells.
He noted that GWI is in the process of eliminating the use of the problematic carbon-steel casings as the soil PH in Guyana causes them to erode in short periods of time. The carbon-steel casings were introduced under the previous GWI administration and used in at least 18 wells.
Chief Executive,
Dr Richard
Van-West Charles
The carbon-steel cased wells were expected to last 20-25 years but in a matter of two years, the sleeves have eroded beyond repair and could possibly have catastrophic consequences for the company.
Van-West Charles had told the media that GWI is spending some GYD 200 Million to address the situation and is looking at the use of PVC or stainless steel casings to replace the carbon-steel cases.
In May it was reported that 15 wells were affected by the corrosion and in a matter of months, three other wells were discovered with the same problem, the most recent being the Eccles well.
The Chief Executive further stated that he met with the contractors who bid for the drilling of the wells and explained the situation. He promised that after the research for the new methodology was concluded the bidding would be reopened.
Dr Van-West Charles said that within a week’s time, contractors will be able to submit bids for the projects.
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