The management of Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has recently issued a statement regarding significant challenges in water supply affecting Cape Coast, Elmina, and nearby communities. This situation has arisen due to a notable demand-supply gap, primarily attributed to inadequate raw water intake at the Sekyere Hemang Water Treatment Plant (WTP), which is severely impacted by illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey.
Causes of Water Supply Challenges
According to the press release from GWCL’s Central Regional Office, the pollution of the Pra River, particularly at the water abstraction catchment area, has drastically reduced the amount of water available for treatment. The statement highlights that approximately 60% of the catchment capacity has been silted due to galamsey activities, which has compromised the quality of the raw water. Currently, the turbidity levels have soared to an alarming average of 14,000 NTU, far exceeding the designed maximum of 2,000 NTU for effective treatment. As a result, the plant is only able to produce about 7,500 cubic meters of water per day, which is merely a quarter of its full capacity. This shortfall has led to significant inconveniences for residents who rely on the water supply for their daily needs.
Impact on Communities
The acute water shortage has severely affected various neighborhoods, particularly in hilly areas and regions like Abura Town. Residents report that water supply is erratic, often only available late at night, making it difficult for families to store enough water for their daily activities. The situation has escalated to the point where students from local schools are trekking long distances to find alternative water sources, such as hand-dug wells.
In response to the ongoing crisis, GWCL is actively engaging with stakeholders to devise a sustainable solution. They have urged community members to report illegal mining activities to local authorities and to support initiatives aimed at protecting water bodies. The company emphasized the critical nature of community involvement in restoring the quality of raw water and ensuring a reliable supply of clean drinking water, especially during the festive season.
The management has also indicated plans to implement water rationing in Cape Coast and its surrounding areas to manage the limited supply more effectively. They expect that with collaborative efforts and community support, the situation may improve in the coming weeks.
The challenges faced by GWCL in Cape Coast and Elmina highlight the urgent need to address illegal mining activities that are degrading water quality and availability. As the company works to mitigate these issues, it is crucial for residents to participate actively in protecting their water resources to ensure a sustainable and reliable water supply for all.
