Opposition spokes-person on water, land and housing, Dr Horace Chang, has called for a more aggressive approach in dealing with the drought affecting the island.

Dr Chang said the Government must begin a serious public education programme to educate the population on water conservation as well as launching a much more aggressive programme to deal with the technical losses of the NWC, including replacing leaking pipes.

The opposition spokesperson said the government needs to take immediate steps to stem the 60 per cent loss that the NWC suffers due to leaks, theft and malfunction. "The situation needs urgent attention as there are many urban and rural areas that are suffering because of water lock-offs," said Dr Chang.