By Takudziridzwa Nyama
Harare– An acute water crisis has gripped Chitungwiza following the decommissioning of the Prince Edward Water Treatment Plant by the City of Harare at the end of August.
The plant’s shutdown, was caused by the drying up of Harava and Seke Dams, has left residents scrambling for alternative water sources that are failing to meet the demand of the ever increasing population of Chitungwiza.
A statement by the Mayor of Chitungwiza Mayor Rosaria Mangoma indicated that the situation is dire as residents stampede on the few available water sources.
“Since the decommissioning, the council has been receiving between 1 megalitre and 3 megalitres between Saturdays and Sundays from Morton Jaffary. The supply is far below the demand of at least 75 mega litres per day and we are failing to distribute it to all residents when we receive it.”
Mayor Mangoma said they are working flat out to try and find a solution to the problem.
“In the light of this challenge, we are currently engaging the Government for a possible intervention. The council is also maintaining community boreholes for residents to source water.”
She also encouraged residents to draw water from safe and trusted sources before making a plea for any well-wishers to come on board to help the town seal with the water crisis.
Meanwhile, we are appealing to well-wishers to come on board to assist us in this situation. You may please contact the acting town clerk.”
Chitungwiza has faced perennial water shortages with some areas not even connected to the water system but the current situation has gone beyond the usual water crisis residents of the town are used to. With a population of over a million, the water situation if not addressed is ticking health bomb especially with train season ever getting closer.