The Water Resources Commission(WRC), a state regulatory outfit in charge of water-bodies has revealed the activities of illegal miners along the Barekese water-works is threatening the supply of water to residents in the Ashanti Region.
These illegal miners, the Commission noted had taken over some areas of the water source and were vigorously perpetrating acts that had the tendency of drying up the water-body.
According to the Commission, the Ghana Water Company Limited(GWCL) had for the past two weeks closed down three of its water intake facilities due to the effects of artisanal mining.
Speaking at a press briefing in Kumasi , Agyewodin Professor Adu Gyamfi Ampem, Chairman, Water Resources Commission said the closure of these facilities implied the absence of good drinking water for Kumasi Residents.
FACTORS:
Agyewodin Ampem stressed uncontrolled infrastructure development around catchment areas of water bodies was part of the reason for irregular supply of water.
According to him, indiscriminate harvesting of wood along and around the watercourses and the reservoir were contributing factors to the drying up of the Barekese dam.
The use of agro-chemicals by farmers in the farming activities along water bodies was another serious issue threatening the extinction of water sources.
He feared the search for alternative sources of water apart from the one that is being treated at Barekese may be expensive and not safe for use.
MEASURES:
During a chat with the Ghanaian Observer Newspaper, Mr Ben Ampomah, Executive Director of the Water Resources Commission said the National Security had been informed about the situation which was prevailing along the Barekese water body.
He disclosed various District Assemblies along the catchment areas of the dam had been contacted for the necessary action to be taken.
According to him, the Commission was collaborating with known water-related Non-governmental bodies as well as civil society group to wage a joint war against any illegal activity along water-bodies in the country.
He, therefore, urged the media to play its watch dog role effectively so as to ensure each complimented one another in the fight against encroachment and other illegal activities which were done close to water bodies in the country.
