Galamsey Menace: Water Supply Crisis Hits Cape Coast, Elmina and Surrounding Communities

The Ghana Water Limited (Central Region) has issued a warning to its customers in Cape Coast, Elmina, and surrounding communities about an impending water supply crisis due to illegal mining activities (galamsey) in the Pra River catchment area.

In a statement released by the company on August 31, 2024, pointing that the Sekyere Hemang Water Treatment Plant, which serves these communities, is struggling to meet demand due to severe pollution and siltation caused by galamsey.

According to the company, the Pra River, which is the primary source of raw water for the treatment plant, has been heavily polluted, resulting in a significant reduction in water abstraction. The catchment area has been silted by about 60%, compromising the quality of raw water, stressing that Turbidity levels have skyrocketed to 14,000 NTU, far exceeding the designed level of 2000 NTU, making treatment very challenging for the company.

As a result, the treatment plant is currently operating at a quarter of its installed capacity, producing only 7,500m3/day. This has led to severe inconvenience to customers and consumers, and the company has apologized for the situation.

Ghana Water Limited is engaging stakeholders to find a lasting solution to the problem and is urging the public to join the fight against galamsey. The company is calling on community leaders, local assemblies, and individuals to report any illegal mining activities and support initiatives to protect water bodies and promote sustainable water use practices.

The situation is particularly worrying as the Oguaa Fetu Afahye festive season approaches its and the expectant influx of visitors, the company is working to restore the quality of raw water and ensure a reliable supply of clean drinking water. The public’s assistance is crucial in helping to address this crisis and protect the environment.

Story By; Jennifer Augustt