Accra: The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) in the Central Region has revealed that over 41 per cent of the water it produces and distributes monthly cannot be accounted for, resulting in substantial revenue losses. The company is already operating at just 56 per cent of its installed capacity due to factors such as illegal mining, farming, and construction works, which have impacted the turbidity of raw water and led to the drying up of many sources.
According to Ghana News Agency, the GWCL in the region is facing high operational costs, and the significant loss of water exacerbates these challenges. Ing John Eric Kwofie, the Regional Manager, attributed the water thefts mainly to illegal connections by some citizens and, in a few cases, to leakages from burst pipelines and regular customers bypassing their meters to avoid billing.
Ing Kwofie expressed his concerns during a meeting with the press to mark this year’s World Water Day celebration, themed ‘Glacier Preservation.’ In Ghana, the day was observed under the theme: ‘Water conservation: Let’s make it our way of life.’ He announced that two customers were recently apprehended for water theft and were issued penalty bills.
To address the issue, the company has formed a control team to clamp down on illegal activities. Ing Kwofie urged the public to report water thefts, promising confidentiality and rewards for whistleblowers. Additionally, the GWCL is dealing with widespread meter theft and is collaborating with the police to address this crime.
Ing Kwofie reassured the public of improvements in water production and distribution, with rains from the Eastern Region beginning to replenish river sources. He acknowledged that full production has not yet been achieved at all stations but expressed hope for normalisation within the next two weeks, contingent on sufficient inflows and reliable power supply.
He encouraged the public to use water wisely and avoid activities that could affect supply, such as watering lawns and washing vehicles, especially during the dry season.