By Mu’awiya Bala Idris, Katsina
The Katsina State Government has attributed the persistent water scarcity in the Katsina metropolitan area to the ongoing road construction projects across the state.
The State Commissioner for Water Resources, Mannir Ayuba Sullubawa, disclosed this during a press conference, explaining that the road construction had severely affected water pipelines supplying the metropolis.
According to him, many of the pipelines were damaged, while others had to be removed to make way for the construction of drainage systems.
“Most of our water supply pipelines have been damaged and need to be replaced. We are making arrangements to replace the damaged pipes to ensure the smooth supply of water,” he said.
The commissioner assured residents that the government had concluded arrangements to deploy water tankers to provide a steady supply of water to affected communities.
“We will commence the distribution of water through tankers to all parts of the metropolitan area to ease the hardship caused by the shortage,” Sullubawa stated.
He further assured residents that the ongoing expansion of the Ajiwa Water Works would significantly improve water supply and permanently address the recurring shortages in the metropolis upon completion.
Sullubawa explained that the Katsina metropolis and several neighbouring local government areas currently depend solely on the Ajiwa Dam for water supply, noting that the facility can no longer meet the growing demand due to rapid urban expansion and population growth.
He disclosed that the state government had awarded a contract for the expansion and upgrading of the Ajiwa Water Works with modern facilities to boost water production and distribution.
The commissioner also commended Governor Dikko Umar Radda for ensuring the regular monthly supply of diesel to all water treatment plants in the state, describing the intervention as critical to sustaining water production.
