The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) has reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the water challenges in the Bongo District of the Upper East Region. The Commission noted that the district remains one of the key underserved areas despite the availability of surplus treated water in the region.
During a working visit to the region, the PURC observed that only about 43 per cent of the Upper East Region’s water supply capacity is currently being utilised. Meanwhile, communities like Bongo still face water scarcity. The Commission plans to collaborate with Ghana Water Limited (GWL) and other stakeholders to ensure pipeline extensions are carried out to serve these communities.
The Executive Secretary of the PURC, Dr Shafic Suleman, stated that the Commission would facilitate national-level engagements to expedite the integration of Bongo and other towns into the operational network of GWL.
The visit formed part of a national regulatory tour aimed at improving coordination with service providers and addressing consumer challenges through direct engagement. As part of the tour, the PURC met with the Upper East Regional Minister, Ghana Water Limited, and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCo).
Officials of GWL in the region stated that the company possesses the technical capability to supply water to Bongo and towns like Paga, but is awaiting clearance from the head office to assume responsibility from the Community Water and Sanitation Agency (CWSA). Formal requests from Bongo leaders have already been submitted.
At NEDCo, the Commission learned that the ongoing conflict in Bawku is affecting power supply operations. Regional officials reported that power theft and the inability to monitor infrastructure safely have resulted in commercial losses of nearly 50 per cent. Field staff have been relocated to Bolgatanga for safety reasons.
NEDCo also identified meter bypassing in farming towns, such as Navrongo and Walewale, especially during the dry season. The company cited challenges in enforcement and perceived political interference as factors encouraging these illegal activities.
The Upper East Regional Minister also raised concerns about the widespread lack of functional streetlights across the region, which he said poses a threat to safety and security.
The PURC responded that the Energy Ministry is set to distribute over 23,000 solar-powered three-in-one streetlights nationwide. The Upper East Region is expected to benefit from the initiative aimed at enhancing public safety and promoting round-the-clock economic activities.
One thought on “PURC to Prioritise Bongo District in Upper East Water Supply Network”