By ALICE NACHILEMBE
Mulonga water Supply and Sanitation Company Acting Managing Director Reuben Kaira says the utility is rolling out the Zambia Water and Sanitation Project (ZWSP) with plans to modernize the water treatment.
Mr Kaira said the utility is having challenges with water quality particularly in Chingola.
He said water from Kafue river tend to be turbid (brownish in colour), especially after heavy rains thereby forcing Mulonga to shut off the treatment plant at times as the mitigation to ensure sustainability of services.
Mr Kaira said through the ZWSP the company’s plans in the pipeline is to renew both the infrastructure and equipment in an effort to tackle water quality challenges.
Speaking during World Water Day under the theme ‘Water and Climate Change’ he said the water quality has evolved as climate change has taken a toll on fresh water sources.
“The challenge of climate change and its negative effect on fresh water sources cannot be fought by water utilities alone but by concerted efforts from all stake holders. Water is a natural resource which we need to safe guarded and utilize responsibly especially by organizations which are fortunate to be upstream,” he said.
He said this day is a highlight of MWSC calendar as it give us a chance to showcase the services and bring to the fore issues which affect freshwater sources.
“Water is the primary medium through which the effects of climate change are felt and its availability is becoming less predictable in many places. Generally as a nation, and specifically as water utility company, we cannot separate both our short and long term plans from the effects of climate change, as it is a fundamental aspect which will determine the way forward in the provision of water and sanitation services,” he said.
He said in view of the outbreak of corona virus (covid 19), customers are urged to use several of Mulonga electronic payment methods to settle their outstanding bills as opposed to visiting pay points.
He implored customers to get in touch with the company’s new customer contact centre for any reports or enquiries.
