In a shocking revelation, Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has taken drastic action against illegal water connections in Kasoa, leaving residents and businesses high and dry. But is this enforcement fair to all? GWL’s recent crackdown has exposed a web of unauthorized water access in the Awutu Senya East Municipality, specifically targeting Standard Water Company and other commercial operators.
Here’s the catch: a joint operation with National Security personnel uncovered a sophisticated setup at a 10-bedroom property, complete with an underground reservoir allegedly used to store illegally sourced water. And that’s not all—Standard Water and a fellow sachet water producer were found tapping into water lines, bypassing meters and avoiding payment altogether.
The investigation revealed a clever scheme where companies applied for domestic meters, only to later reroute the water supply using larger pipes, bypassing the metering system and drawing massive amounts of water for commercial use. GWL claims this illegal activity is a critical drain on their resources and a primary cause of water supply issues in the region.
Solace Akomeah, Accra West Regional Communications Manager, expressed deep concern over the extent of the theft. She emphasized that those responsible will face hefty penalties and potential legal consequences. But here’s where it gets controversial—Ms. Akomeah’s statement raises the question: are these illegal connections a symptom of a larger issue with water distribution fairness and accessibility?
GWL is now calling on residents to report any suspected illegal connections, believing community involvement is key to restoring water supply stability. This enforcement campaign is part of a broader strategy to address supply challenges and protect the water distribution network’s integrity.
Ms. Akomeah’s appeal to the public to report water theft or meter tampering in their neighborhoods invites a debate: is this solely an issue of illegal connections, or does it highlight deeper problems with water management and distribution? Share your thoughts below!