​The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) says water distribution from the Crabbs Reverse Osmosis (RO) Plant has been delayed after unforeseen operational issues emerged following scheduled maintenance.

In a maintenance update issued on Wednesday, January 28, APUA’s Water Business Unit explained that the problems arose after planned works carried out at the facility on Tuesday. As a result, water production from the plant was not restored as expected, affecting supply to several communities across the island.

According to APUA, the Crabbs facility has been in operation for more than 30 years, and while maintenance is conducted with care, the age of the plant means its systems can be particularly sensitive during and after such activities. Technical teams are currently working to resolve the issue and restore water distribution as safely and efficiently as possible.

The utility said it will, where feasible, supply affected areas from alternative sources to minimise disruption. Communities expected to feel the impact include Weirs, North Sound, Gunthorpes, Fitches Creek, Pigotts, Paynters, Lightfoot East and West, Sea View Farm, Potters, Parham, Pares, All Saints, Freemans Village, Clare Hall, Cassada Gardens, Upper Gambles, Wireless Road and parts of St. John’s, among others.

APUA also acknowledged that the Crabbs RO Plant has reached the end of its commercial lifespan. Construction is expected to begin later this year on a new 3.2-million-imperial-gallon reverse osmosis facility at Crabbs, which forms part of the authority’s broader efforts to strengthen the water network and improve long-term system resilience.

The authority has apologised for the inconvenience and thanked customers for their patience. Customers seeking further information or assistance are advised to contact the APUA Support Centre at 211.