Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Support Editor
Published on 2024-03-15 10:31:23
North-Western Water Supply and Sanitation Company in Solwezi district has implemented water rationing due to the 8-hour load shedding by ZESCO Limited. The company’s head corporate, James Phiri, explained in an interview with ZANIS that they are taking steps to mitigate the impact on customers. This includes providing water bowsers to affected areas and exploring options to connect treatment plants to a power line unaffected by outages.
Mr. Phiri acknowledged that the combination of a dry spell and increased human activity near the river has hampered their ability to supply water. He expressed concern about the diminishing raw water levels and the potential strain it may put on their operations. To address this challenge, the company is considering sourcing water from the Mutanda River as an alternative solution, pending government funding for a feasibility study that has been completed.
The ongoing dry spell in Solwezi district is expected to exacerbate the water supply issue, as the Solwezi River – the company’s primary water source – continues to face depletion. Human activities around the river have also contributed to the declining water levels, further complicating the situation for North-Western Water Supply and Sanitation Company.
In light of these challenges, the company is looking to diversify its water sources and improve its infrastructure to ensure the continued provision of water to customers. However, the impact of the dry spell and human interference on the river ecosystem remains a pressing concern for sustainable water supply in the region.
As the company navigates these challenges, they are committed to working with stakeholders like ZESCO and local authorities to find solutions that prioritize water access for the community. By implementing proactive measures and seeking alternative water sources, North-Western Water Supply and Sanitation Company aims to minimize disruptions and ensure reliable water supply in Solwezi district.
In conclusion, the current water rationing in Solwezi district is a response to the combined effects of load shedding, a dry spell, and human activities impacting the Solwezi River. North-Western Water Supply and Sanitation Company is actively addressing these challenges through interventions like providing water bowsers, exploring alternative water sources, and engaging with key partners for long-term solutions. By adapting to the changing circumstances and seeking sustainable water management practices, the company remains committed to meeting the water needs of the community in the face of environmental challenges.
Read the original article on Lusaka Times
