The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has warned that illegal small-scale mining, also known as galamsey, is threatening raw water supply in the Central Region due to pollution.
In a statement issued on August 30, the GWCL Central Regional Office said they are facing inadequate raw water at the Sekyere Hemang Water Treatment Plant (WTP) due to galamsey activities along the Pra River.
"About Sixty percent (60%) of the catchment capacity is silted as a result of illegal mining (galamsey) compromising the quality of raw water. We are currently recording an average turbidity of 14,000 NTU instead of 2000 NTU designed for adequate treatment," the statement reads in part.
As a result of the pollution, the WTP is only able to produce about 7,500 cubic meters of water per day currently, representing just a quarter of its installed capacity.
This, according to GWCL, has caused "severe inconveniences" to customers and consumers in Cape Coast, Elmina and surrounding communities.
The Company apologized for the disruption and added that it is engaging stakeholders to find a lasting solution.
It further called on "all interest groups to join the fight against galamsey on the River Pra especially during this festive period" and support initiatives to protect water bodies.
"Your assistance is crucial in helping us restore the quality of the raw water and ensure a reliable water supply of clean drinking water especially as we celebrate our most cherished festival," the statement said.
The recent warning by GWCL reflects the devastating effect of galamsey on water resources in Ghana, with many water bodies now heavily polluted due to the activities of illegal miners.
Immediate action is needed to curb galamsey and safeguard water supply, stressed GWCL.
