Garissa firm calls for patience as it solves water issue

A section of the River Tana. The water quality has changed due to the ongoing heavy rains upstream./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

The Garissa Water and Sewerage Company (Gawasco) has urged residents to remain patient as ongoing heavy rains continue to affect the quality of water from the River Tana.

In a public notice, Gawasco said rains have caused a surge in the river’s flow, stirring up mud and sediments that have clouded the water at the treatment plant.

“The ongoing rains have caused the Tana River to rise, increasing mud and sediments in the water. This has affected the quality and clarity of raw water reaching our plant,” the notice said.

The company assured residents that its technical teams are working around the clock to maintain safety standards and restore normal water quality once river conditions stabilise.

“We appeal to our customers and the general public to bear with us during this short period as we manage the situation. The company is taking all necessary measures to minimise the impact and restore normal water quality as soon as possible,” the statement said.

Over the past month, Garissa town has faced intermittent water supply disruptions that have inconvenienced many households and businesses.

Gawasco’s public relations officer, Omar Abdullahi, acknowledged the challenges but said they stem from factors beyond the company’s control.

“On behalf of Gawasco, I want to apologise to our customers in Garissa town and its environs for the inconvenience caused. The problem is a result of the diversion of the River Tana, which has led to heavy silting at the main water intake point,” he said.

Abdullahi said the ongoing construction works associated with the new Tana River Bridge, a major infrastructure project meant to improve connectivity across the Northeastern corridor, have worsened the situation by disrupting water pumping operations.

Chris Kamau, an engineer at Gawasco, said the company is working closely with the contractor and the Kenya National Highways Authority to find a lasting solution and restore regular water supply.

“We are confident that once the works are completed and river flow stabilises, water quality and supply will return to normal,” he said.