The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has announced disruptions in water supply to Cape Coast, Elmina, and surrounding communities in the Central Region.
The company attributed the recent demand-supply gap to inadequate raw water intake at the Sekyere Hemang Water Treatment Plant (WTP) caused by illegal mining (galamsey) activities.
In a press statement released on Friday, August 30, GWCL stated that the pollution of the Pra River, particularly in the catchment area for water abstraction, has significantly reduced water intake to the plant.
Approximately 60% of the catchment capacity is silted due to galamsey, compromising the quality of the raw water.
The statement noted that the plant is currently operating at only 25% of its installed capacity, producing around 7,500 cubic meters of water per day.
This has caused severe inconvenience to customers and consumers.
GWCL is actively working with stakeholders to address this issue and is urging the public to join the fight against galamsey on the Pra River, especially during the festive season.
Residents are encouraged to report any illegal mining activities to their community leaders and local assemblies.
The company emphasized the importance of protecting water bodies and promoting sustainable water use practices to ensure a reliable supply of clean drinking water.
