Infrastructure challenges have hindered the ability of truckers to meet demand, the Bermuda Water Truckers Association said today.

The BWTA urged the public to conserve water, citing problems related to the island’s “water production, distribution and storage infrastructure” with the eastern and central parishes most affected.

It explained: “The east end water truckers’ outlet has been forced to shut down, while the primary water facility at Tynes Bay is operating under heavily restricted hours, when open, with intermittent closures.

“These limitations have drastically reduced the ability of water truckers to meet the island’s growing demand, resulting in significant delays for water deliveries.

“The government water section has acknowledged the urgency of the situation and has committed to undertaking extensive infrastructure repairs.

“We convey our sincere thanks for the efforts they are currently putting in, seven days a week.”

The BWTA added: “This said, based on the information provided to us, the most immediate and urgent repairs are expected to continue through at least the end of March, and this does not speak for the significant and crucial long term repairs required to prevent this from happening again.”

The organisation said it has offered its support and resources to help speed the restoration of water services, but in the meantime it urged residents to take proactive measures to conserve water.

“Additionally, we encourage residents not to wait until their water tanks are empty before placing orders, as this will help ease the strain on both consumers and delivery services during this period of restricted supply,” the statement continued.

“Maintaining a minimum one to two week supply in your tank at all times, is a good rule of thumb, especially in the East End.”

The BWTA highlighted that several water truck outlets are offline, including the former Bermuda Land Development Company outlet at St David’s Wharf, the Government’s Prospect outlet and the Government Quarry outlet.

It said the Bermuda Land Management Company outlet in St David’s is not yet operational, while the Tynes Bay outlet has recently experienced closures, reduced production and reduced hours.

While the BWTA said that the Port Royal outlet remained open, they warned the site has historically had periods of intermittent service when there is high demand.

So far this year, the Bermuda Weather Service has recorded 5.47in of rainfall, several inches below the 7.27in average for the same period.

However, the BWS said a cold front could bring some scattered showers to the island on Friday.

The Royal Gazette has asked the Government for comment and this story will be updated if any is provided.