Finishing touches and
punch list items are being take care of prior to final activation of the Water
Pipeline project in Baptiste, Haiti. In July, the final structure appeared to
be completed, but during the operation to fill the Break Pressure Tank, several
leaks were discovered and the process was stopped. The Break Pressure Tank is
essentially a large concrete tank that was built on the mountainside
approximately have way between the water source and the village of Baptiste. It
is needed to reduce the water pressure in the pipeline so that the high
pressure caused by the elevation difference (400 ft). This water tank operates
very similar to the water tank on you toilet at home.
The repairs involved
application of a sand and cement mixture to seal the walls to prevent water
leakage. The repairs are nearly complete and the plan is to fill the tank in
mid September which will place the water project in full operation.
During this same period,
an additional water delivery fountain was constructed near the Presbytere’s
cistern. This fountain will draw water from the cistern to ensure here is
adequate withdraw from the cistern to keep the water fresh. In addition, the pipeline
was extended from the inlet side of the Presbytere cistern to the Zanmi
Lasante/ Holy Family clinic in Baptiste. This extension will eventually allow
the second water pasteurizer to be installed at the clinic and deliver
pasteurized water for use at the clinic.
