Residents in several parts of Accra are grappling with persistent water shortage, which has worsened in recent months due to faulty pumps at the Ghana Water Company Limited’s (GWCL) production stations.
The unreliable water supply has forced many households to rely on expensive private water retailers. The affected areas, including Dansoman, Achimota, and other communities, have experienced sporadic access to water, with some receiving supply only once a week.
In some cases, particularly in sections of Dansoman, the water shortage has stretched for over six months, leaving residents with no choice but to purchase water from tanker operators.
Frustrated residents report paying between 50 and 70 cedis per tank from private water sellers, significantly increasing household expenses. For many, these prices are unsustainable, yet necessary, as the taps remain dry.
A resident from Achimota expressed concern about the toll the water shortage has taken on her family: “We’ve been without regular water for months. We only get supply once a week, and that’s not enough. We have no choice but to buy from the water tankers, but it’s expensive. This can’t go on.”
In response to the ongoing crisis, Charles Tulasi, Chief Productions Manager of GWCL, acknowledged the situation and attributed the shortage to faulty pumps at some of their key stations. However, he offered a glimmer of hope, revealing that new water plants have been procured and will be operational by the end of October.
“We understand the frustration of our customers, and we want to assure them that relief is on the way. The faulty pumps will be replaced with new ones, which we expect to improve water supply significantly,” Tulasi stated.
He further called on the public to support the Ghana Water Company by paying their water bills promptly. According to Tulasi, the timely payment of water bills is critical to maintaining and improving the company’s infrastructure, which in turn, ensures a steady and reliable water supply for all.
For now, residents will have to endure the shortages until the new equipment is installed. With the promise of consistent water flow by the end of October, the GWCL hopes to restore confidence in the water supply system. In the meantime, the company is urging the public to conserve water and remain patient as they work to resolve the issue.
