We are unable to get raw water to process for consumers in Cape Coast, Elmina due to galamsey – GWCL
The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has raised urgent concerns over the relentless illegal mining activities, also known as galamsey, affecting the Pra River and severely disrupting operations. The water supply in Cape Coast, Elmina, and neighboring communities has been drastically impacted, leaving residents struggling as taps run dry for days.
According to GWCL’s management in the Central Region, the company’s ability to deliver clean and accessible water is increasingly compromised by illegal mining, which has cast a long shadow over water security in the region. The recent demand-supply gap is primarily due to inadequate raw water intake at the Sekyere Hemang Water Treatment Plant (WTP), attributed to severe pollution and siltation of the Pra River.
The company states that nearly 60% of the catchment area is silted due to illegal mining activities, significantly reducing the quality and volume of raw water. This alarming situation has caused turbidity levels to skyrocket to 14,000 NTU, far above the 2,000 NTU threshold designed for proper treatment. Consequently, the plant currently operates at just a quarter of its installed capacity, producing only about 7,500 m³/day.
This ongoing crisis has led to significant inconveniences for consumers, who are coping with unreliable water supply as GWCL works tirelessly to engage stakeholders for a lasting solution. The company is actively calling on the public, community leaders, and local assemblies to join the fight against galamsey, particularly during the festive period of Oguaa Fetu Afahye, celebrated by the chiefs and people of Cape Coast.
GWCL urges all stakeholders to report illegal mining activities and support efforts to protect water bodies, promote sustainable water use, and restore reliable water supply. Collective action is essential to safeguard the region’s water security and ensure clean drinking water for all.
