The Cost of Water

Jamaicans are very resourceful so it was no surprise that the recent drought has created business ‘opportunities’.

Several enterprising citizens have been fortunate enough to have stored water while others are languishing without the precious commodity.

So what has been the solution? Water for sale of course! I have seen an increase in the sales of bottled water in stores and sidewalk stalls but it has gone even further than that for some entrepreneurs!

Water for Sale

Some persons have been providing their neighbours with water for a price. Although that might sound very opportunistic, these people are certainly making use of the drought conditions. Should they have offered the water freely to their neighbours?

Well let’s reason on this, if the consumer were to purchase water from the N.W.C. (The National Water Commission) they would have had to pay several thousands of dollars  in order to do so.

Although it would be good to encourage neighbourly concern, the truth of the matter is that those who have excess will be able to capitalize on this and make a profit. It’s the age old adage of supply and demand.

Ironically, many persons are turning to this informal water supply as it is usually cheaper than trucked water. However, there is a note of caution as if you are buying water from informal sources then the quality can be called into question.

A good tip for keeping your water supply clean is to keep it stored in clean containers and boil all drinking water.

On a side note since the drought is on us in full swing, if you eat out a lot be sure to ask if the eatery has a supply of water. It is also encouraged to drink only bottled water at these establishments.

So how are you coping with the water shortage? Would you buy water?

Let me hear from you!

Teri Ann Renee Paisley

Gleaner Online Writer

Tags: drought, water