The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has directed the Ghana Water Limited (GWL) to restore water supply to Greater Kumasi area (Bantama, Atonso, Santasi, Ridge) and surrounding areas with immediate effect.
A statement issued by Dr Ishmael Ackah, the Executive Secretary of PURC, noted that water supply to Greater Kumasi and its environs were curtailed since last Friday, 13th December.
Dr Ackah described the situation as unacceptable, stating that it undermines the fundamental right of access to clean and safe water for all citizens.
He directed GWCL to restore water supply to all affected customers in the Greater Kumasi area and surrounding areas with immediate effect.
He has also directed GWCL to engage with the affected communities and to provide alternative supply as needed.
According to him, public utility disconnection procedures, interruption in services and denial of service are governed by Regulations 2, 3 (d) & (e) and 4 of the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (Consumer Service) Regulations 2020 (L.I. 2413).
Specifically, he mentioned that regulation four provides that: “Subject to these regulations, a public utility shall not deny the right of access of a consumer to a service except for stated reasons which are subject to review in accordance with the guidelines of the Commission.”
Making reference to the above regulations, Dr Ackah argued that a utility provider is obliged by law to use appropriate channels to address any challenges without punishing consumers.
“The denial of water supply not only affects the daily lives of residents but also poses significant public health risks.
Dr Ackah indicated that GWCL shall submit a detailed report on the reasons for the service interruption and measures being taken to prevent such occurrences in the future.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com