Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has announced the shutdown of the Bonsa Headworks, which supplies 75% of potable water to the Tarkwa-Nsueam Municipality in the Western Region.
This decision follows the severe impact of illegal mining activities, known as “galamsey,” on the Bonsa River, which has rendered it impossible to extract and treat water for distribution.
In a statement dated January 2, 2025, signed by Wisdom Doe Akoto, the Tarkwa District Manager of GWL, the company stated that all attempts to curb the pollution caused by galamsey activities have been unsuccessful, necessitating the suspension of operations at the facility.
GWL expressed concern over the ongoing pollution and called on stakeholders, including local authorities and security agencies, to take urgent and effective action to restore the river’s quality and ensure a reliable water supply for the affected communities.
“We have tried all that we could but to no avail, hence the shutdown. The river is still being monitored for acceptable parameters to enable us to restart production, and until then, the plant remains closed.
“We promise to update the public on any development with regard to the current situation,” he said.
This closure is expected to affect water supply to residents and industries in the municipality, further highlighting the devastating impact of illegal mining on essential resources.
