Kpeve: Dr. Shafic Sulemana, the Executive Secretary of the Public Utility Regulatory Commission (PURC), has reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to maintaining its regulatory duties concerning the Kpeve Headworks of Ghana Water Limited (GWL). This assurance comes amid growing public concern over the construction of a resort by Stallion BSK Ghana Limited near the Headworks, which has impacted the buffer zone critical for protecting water bodies.
According to Ghana News Agency, the ongoing construction project has compromised the buffer zone, an essential international standard for safeguarding water bodies against human development. This situation has led to disruptions in water supplies to nearby communities, including the regional capital, Ho, particularly during rainfall, as the upstream vegetation and buffer zone borders have been affected.
Dr. Sulemana emphasized that the PURC, responsible for regulating electricity, water, and natural gas services, has dispatched a team to the Headworks to better understand the developments. During this visit, positive steps by the developer were noted, such as the construction of a 'rip rap' embankment to mitigate runoff into the intake point. However, Dr. Sulemana expressed concern over the breach of the 500-meter buffer zone, describing it as a significant legal violation.
He highlighted that while the resort holds economic value, it should not compromise the interests of the Volta region's residents, especially in water resource protection. The PURC will continue to monitor the development and ensure full compliance with environmental impact assessment requirements.
Mr. Daniel Fynn Asiam from GWL in Ho pointed out the importance of considering both short-term and long-term environmental impacts. He stressed the necessity of maintaining strict effluence and waste management practices, especially as the Headworks lacks a sedimentation tank.
Moreover, Mr. Philip Agbezudor, Volta Regional Director of PURC, emphasized the importance of protecting water bodies in the region, noting that while the area is not directly impacted by 'Galamsey' mining pollution, vigilance is crucial. He cited the shutdown of other water treatment plants as a warning of the potential risks.
Mr. Eric Avornyo, Station Manager at the Kpeve Headworks, reported that the station currently produces around 17,000 cubic meters of water daily, just shy of its 18,000 cubic meter capacity. He attributed production challenges to power outages but noted improvements in turbidity levels. New intake pumps have been procured to enhance water production, pending stable conditions.
Stakeholders, including the Volta Region Coordinating Council, Environmental Protection Agency, PURC, and GWL, have collectively expressed concerns over the resort's proximity to the intake point and its potential pollution risks. Despite this, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Afadzato South District have legally sanctioned the resort's development, allowing Stallion BSK Ghana Limited to proceed with construction.