The Barbados Water Authority (BWA) is confronting a significant financial challenge, with over $100 million in unpaid bills, primarily owed by residential customers. Acting CEO Christopher Mapp revealed that the authority is intensifying collection efforts to recover at least 40% of the outstanding debt. This follows years of leniency during the COVID-19 pandemic, when disconnections were suspended to ensure access to water as a basic necessity. Mapp noted that the majority of delinquent accounts originated in 2020, when many customers stopped paying their bills, taking the service for granted. Despite resuming disconnections in 2023, many households have not reconnected their water, indicating ongoing financial hardship. Mapp likened the authority’s receivables to a loan portfolio, acknowledging that a portion of the debt may never be recovered. Residential customers account for 60% of both total billing and delinquent accounts, with hotels showing greater responsiveness to payment demands. Acting Finance Director Kent D’Hayle estimated that only $40 million of the debt is realistically collectible, though the BWA will continue pursuing all arrears. The authority is offering flexible repayment plans, often extending up to three years or longer for those in financial distress. Mapp emphasized the social responsibility of providing water while balancing the need for revenue, but acknowledged that disconnections are no longer as effective a deterrent, as many residents turn to alternative water sources instead of settling their bills.