The National Water Commission (NWC) says it has launched initiatives to meet increased demand on its water-supply systems in areas which have been affected by drought.

Lower-than-average rainfall across sections of Jamaica in May and June, traditionally one of the wettest periods of the year, has increased the need for NWC services.

In a release issued last Tuesday, the commission said it would ramp up the trucking of potable water to affected areas. Valve regulation and scheduled rationing are among the NWC's strategies to reduce overuse, wastage and leakage.

Maximum yields

Measures will also be put in place to extract maximum yields from all available sources.

The utility has urged its clients to conserve more during the summer months, limiting as much as possible the watering of lawns and washing of vehicles.

"We ask for the continued cooperation and understanding of our valued customers during these difficult dry months," said Charles Buchanan, the NWC's corporate public relations manager.

The most severely affected parishes are Kingston and St Andrew, St Catherine, Clarendon, Portland, St Thomas, Manchester, St Elizabeth.