The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has temporarily shut down its Pigeon Point Reverse Osmosis Plant following a system malfunction, warning that several communities and businesses could experience reduced water pressure or interruptions to their water supply.

In a statement Monday, APUA said operators shut down the facility to carry out critical maintenance and restoration work.

The shutdown is expected to affect customers in Nelson’s Dockyard, English Harbour, Falmouth, Hospital Hill, Clarence House, Cobb’s Cross and Piccadilly.

Several businesses, tourism establishments and other facilities could also experience disruptions, including the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force Coast Guard Station, Antigua Slipway, Incanto Italian Restaurant, Deep Blue Italian Restaurant, The Inn at English Harbour, Loose Cannon Beach Bar, Academy of Rum, Like Hill Villas, Moondance Antigua and the Dowes Hill Interpretation Centre.

APUA said its maintenance teams are actively working to restore the facility while minimizing the impact on customers in affected areas.

The authority did not provide an estimated time for the completion of repairs or the restoration of normal water service.

“APUA teams are actively working to minimise the impact on customers in the affected areas while critical maintenance and restoration work is underway,” the utility said.

APUA said it would continue monitoring the situation and provide updates as repairs progress.

The authority apologized for the inconvenience and thanked customers for their patience and understanding.

The shutdown affects a key water-production facility serving the English Harbour and Falmouth areas, including several tourism-related businesses and historic sites.

APUA has not announced when the plant will resume operations.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: APUA shuts down Pigeon Point desalination plant following malfunction, water disruptions expected.