The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has announced the closure of the Bonsa Headworks, which supplies 75% of the potable water to Tarkwa Township and its environs.
The shutdown is attributed to the extensive pollution caused by illegal mining activities, commonly known as ‘galamsey,’ on the Bonsa River.
According to a statement signed by Wisdom Dogbey, District Manager of GWCL Tarkwa, the contamination has rendered the water unsuitable for treatment. Despite efforts to address the issue, the company has been unable to resume operations.
“We have tried all that we could, but to no avail, hence the shutdown,” the statement noted.
The GWCL is currently monitoring the river for acceptable quality parameters that would allow the plant to restart production.
The company has assured the public that they will provide updates on any developments.
However, until the situation improves, the water supply to Tarkwa and nearby areas remains severely impacted.
This shutdown highlights the growing environmental and public health concerns caused by illegal mining activities in Ghana. Residents are urged to conserve water while alternative solutions are sought to mitigate the crisis.
