Greater Lokoja Waterworks, a glimmer of hope
The issue of water supply to Lokoja and environs became so bad that the people of Lokoja had lost hope of returning to the period when pipe borne water is readily available. it is even more painful when you consider that Lokoja, the confluence of two of the biggest rivers in Nigeria (Niger and Benue) can be without portable drinking water.
While a lot of speculation about the reasons continues to spread, the management of the water board with the full support of the Kogi State Government was working assiduously to unearth and solve the issue.
The Management of Water Board under the leadership of Engr. Sagir Muhammed has at different times and fora revealed that the unprecedented flood in 2022 which submerged the facility left them with a huge problem which requires serious repairs and in some cases experts who have worked in a similar facility.
Investigation revealed that apart from taking over all the facility, all 6 pumps, control stations, power station etc were all submerged thereby damaging the flood pumps and others crucial engines.
Engr. Sagir reveal to some Stakeholders from Lokoja who visited the facility that once the flood receded, they were faced with a serious challenge as the panels in the control room could no longer work and this means water could not be pumped.
“We had to go underground to find solutions because only experts who have experience with similar control machines and panels can fix it. In the last 4 months, we have been on this and I am glad to announce to you that we have successfully fixed control panel 1, 3 & 6 and in the last 3 days we have started test running supplies.”
“In the next couple of days, water supply will return to our homes. We are also hopeful that this year’s flood will not be as devastating as the last” He added as he also used the opportunity to extend management and government apology for the inconveniences they have faced in trying to access portable drinking water
At last, there is light at the end of the tunnel.
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