In a transparent response to mounting public apprehension, Belize Water Services (BWS) granted media representatives unprecedented access to two critical water treatment facilities on December 2, 2025. This initiative follows concerning data from the Statistical Institute of Belize’s MICS7 survey, which identified significant water safety and sanitation challenges across multiple districts.
Journalists received comprehensive tours of both the Double Run Water Treatment Plant in Sandhill—the primary source of potable water for Belize City and Ladyville—and the Belmopan Wastewater Treatment Plant, which has recently faced numerous complaints regarding persistent foul odors in surrounding neighborhoods.
BWS Chief Executive Officer Sanjay Kashwani emphasized the organization’s commitment to operational transparency, stating: “We intentionally opened our doors to demonstrate our water treatment methodologies, production processes, and quality assurance protocols. Our paramount objective remains delivering safe drinking water through rigorous standards.”
At the Double Run facility, Belize District Manager Reina Gonzalez detailed the extensive treatment cycle: “We systematically treat raw river water to ensure distributed water meets potable standards.” She highlighted the facility’s hourly testing regimen, which continuously monitors turbidity, pH levels, chlorine concentrations, and other critical indicators before water reaches consumers.
The Belmopan plant tour addressed widespread odor concerns that had alarmed residents for several weeks. Wastewater Manager Roberto Toriz identified the cause as a damaged sewer line within the aging infrastructure. “Constructed in the 1970s, the system has reached its lifespan capacity and began collapsing,” Toriz explained, noting the complexity of repairs requiring temporary station shutdowns to prevent effluent interference.
Toriz acknowledged the system’s limitations, confirming that eventual full replacement will be necessary. Recent improvements include replacing 500 feet of piping, with preventative strategies being developed to mitigate future incidents. BWS has announced plans for additional network upgrades throughout the coming year.