Minister of Public Infrastructure, Energy and Utilities, Konris Maynard, has unveiled a pioneering initiative that employs advanced drone technology to detect underground water sources across St. Kitts.
The high-tech operation forms part of the Government’s broader strategy to secure a sustainable supply of potable water, in line with St. Kitts and Nevis’ vision of becoming a sustainable island state.
Speaking in Parliament, Maynard announced the commencement of a semi-airborne drone geophysical survey. This cutting-edge project is designed to identify underground aquifers with precision, ultimately boosting the national water supply and strengthening the island’s resilience to climate change.
“I’m pleased to announce the commencement of what is called a semi-airborne drone geophysical survey across the island of St. Kitts,” Maynard stated. “This state-of-the-art initiative aims to identify the precise locations of underground aquifers with the goal of increasing our national water supply and ensuring resilience in the face of climate change.”
He emphasised that this survey represents a crucial step in the Government’s plan to restore round-the-clock water service for all citizens and residents.
The drone deployed is the largest of its kind the Minister has encountered, capable of carrying a payload of up to 30 kilograms. In addition to locating water sources, Maynard highlighted its potential for lifesaving applications such as delivering emergency supplies to individuals stranded at sea or in remote areas.
The drone conducts electrical resistivity testing of the earth, allowing scientists to analyse the resistance levels of different underground materials and pinpoint likely locations of water storage.
Maynard noted that the drone initiative complements a broader suite of water-related projects under the Labour administration. These include the construction of a two million-gallon-per-day desalination plant, the commissioning of a new well in Cayon, a UAE-funded desalination facility, new water storage tanks, and the replacement of ageing and inefficient pipe networks across the island.
Despite inherited challenges, the Minister expressed confidence in the Ministry’s innovative and proactive approach to addressing water shortages.
“Madam Speaker, as you would know, water is life and every drop counts. Access to a reliable, sustainable water supply is fundamental to our national development in all spheres,” he said.
He further assured the public of the Ministry’s full commitment to solving the water crisis through modern, science-driven solutions. The drone survey will continue over several weeks, with the aircraft operating approximately 50 metres above ground in systematic sweeps across the island.
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