By Saeed Ahmad Bappah, and Adamu Abubakar, Gombe
The Gombe State Water Board (GSWB) is making significant progress in its quest to address water shortages and improve service delivery.
The General Manager, GSWB stated this while briefing newsmen about the efforts of Inuwa Yahaya’s Administration in tackling the water scarcity problem in Gombe Metropolis on Wednesday.
The GM praised the multi-billion Naira rehabilitation, upgrade, and expansion of Gombe Regional Water Supply Scheme undertaken by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya administration. This ambitious initiative marks the first major upgrade to the Dadinkowa Treatment Plant, which has served the Gombe metropolis for 17 years, and aims to address the growing demand for water due to a surging population.
Engr Abubakar explained that the ongoing water reticulation project, currently at 92% completion, has delivered several key milestones. Three Mega Booster Stations have been constructed, bringing increased pumping capacity to the system. Over 160 kilometers of new pipes have been laid, extending water coverage to previously underserved areas that were not part of the existing scheme. These new pipelines, combined with the installation of multi-fuel booster pumps – capable of utilizing grid electricity, generators, and solar power – aim to ensure a more efficient and reliable water supply.
“This timely intervention by Governor Yahaya’s administration addresses the critical issue of water shortage and aging infrastructure, which resulted from Gombe’s population doubling since the Dadinkowa facility was built. Back then, the plant catered to an estimated 250,000 people, but the current population has outgrown its capacity, putting immense pressure on the existing system”, he said.
To improve service delivery and customer satisfaction, the MD said “the board has established 10 Area Offices across the metropolis. Each office is equipped with dedicated personnel and resources, including technical and marketing teams, to provide efficient services and respond promptly to customer needs.
“The Board is also working in collaboration with the Gombe State Internal Revenue Service and other relevant agencies to ensure proper collection of water bills and dues, aiming to generate sustainable funding for future maintenance”, he added.
He warned that the board is taking a firm stance against illegal connections, which can disrupt water flow and deprive legitimate customers of their fair share. “In collaboration with the SURWASH project, a pilot plan for installing District Area meters at strategic locations is being implemented. These meters will help pinpoint areas with illegal connections, leaks, and other issues, allowing the Board to take swift action and ensure equitable water distribution”, he explained, adding that the plan also includes; creating and managing customer database, introduction of POS real time payment system among other initiatives.
Addressing a specific challenge, Engr Muhammad explained the Board’s decision to regulate some previously unregulated connections on the main water line supplying Gombe. These unauthorized connections had significantly impacted water flow to the metropolis. While this action affected water supply in 15 communities along the main line, it was a necessary step to ensure equitable distribution and improve overall water delivery for the majority of residents.
Despite the hike in the cost of water supply, the Board is committed to maintaining a consistent supply schedule, providing water five times a week. This commitment to service, even in the face of rising costs, underscores the Board’s dedication to its mandate and the well-being of Gombe residents.
Engr Abubakar lauded Governor Yahaya’s “futuristic investment” in water supply and expressed appreciation for his unwavering support. “The governor’s foresight to award the contract at about 12 Billion Naira at that time is a wise decision, considering the hike in the prices of items in the current situation of the country”, he aplauded.
He appealed to the general public to support the government’s efforts by paying their water bills promptly and following due process when connecting to the water system. Avoiding illegal connections, he emphasized, is crucial for ensuring everyone receives their fair share of this essential resource.