ORANJESTAD, St. Eustatius - Utility company STUCO has started a four-day training program aimed at improving its ability to detect leaks in the island’s water distribution network, as ongoing supply issues continue to affect residents.
The training focuses on acoustic leak detection and correlating techniques, using specialized equipment to trace the sound of water moving through pipes and compare signals between different points in the network. This allows technicians to more accurately locate hidden leaks.
The sessions are being facilitated by Tomas Cuerda, a Puerto Rico-based company specializing in leak detection training and equipment.
Last week, STUCO confirmed that while water production levels are sufficient, significant losses in the distribution network remain a key challenge. A recent technical assessment also pointed to the need for a full replacement of parts of the pipeline system.
Strengthen local capacity
The training is intended to strengthen local capacity to identify and address leaks more efficiently as efforts continue to stabilize the water supply.
