Customers of the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) will experience temporary changes to services this week as the national Operation Stronghold Security Exercise brings traffic and access restrictions to sections of St. John’s.

APUA said pedestrian access along High Street will be restricted on Wednesday, July 8, from approximately 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., while vehicular traffic within the designated security zone will also be affected under measures implemented by the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda.

The utility company is also adjusting the operating hours of its Independence Avenue Business Centre. On Friday, July 10, the facility will open from 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. only because of the ongoing security exercise.

Despite the temporary adjustment, APUA said all other bill payment locations and inet stores across the island will continue to operate during their normal business hours.

To ensure customers can still access essential services, the APUA Mobile Bus will be stationed at the former Head Office in Cassada Gardens from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., offering customer service assistance during the period.

The authority is also encouraging customers to take advantage of its digital services to avoid disruptions. Bills can be viewed and paid through APUA’s online portal, the My inet Home platform, participating online banking and credit union services, while inet customers can complete transactions using the My inet mobile app.

Operation Stronghold is part of Antigua and Barbuda’s preparations for hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) later this year. The multi-agency exercise is designed to test the country’s security readiness and will involve temporary road closures and restricted access in parts of the capital over a three-day period.

APUA thanked customers for their understanding and cooperation while the exercise is underway.