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Residents of Kpetoe in the Volta Region remain in a state of fear and uncertainty as they continue to rely on the contaminated Tordze River for their daily water needs, despite warnings from health and environmental authorities.
The river, which serves as the primary water source for many communities in the area, was polluted following a truck accident that spilled agrochemicals into the waterway. However, due to a lack of alternative water sources, residents say they have no choice but to continue using it for drinking, cooking, and other domestic activities.
During a visit to the River by the Ghana News Agency (GNA), several community members were seen fetching water despite its contamination. Many expressed fear and frustration, stating that without a reliable alternative, they have no option but to keep using the river.
“We know the water is contaminated, but we have no other choice than to use it for cooking, washing, and even drinking. We are living in fear every day,” said Edina, a resident of Kpetoe. Another resident, who preferred to remain anonymous, questioned the lack of emergency interventions to provide clean water: “What can we do? There is no other water source. We know it is not good for our health, but we are helpless.”
The Volta Regional Coordinating Council (VRCC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have confirmed the pollution and warned residents against using the river. However, many continue to use the water in the absence of immediate relief efforts. The Volta Regional Director of the EPA, Mr Cudjoe Zu, stated that official test results on the extent of the contamination are still pending.
“We are waiting for the official results before making further recommendations. In the meantime, we strongly urge the community to avoid using the contaminated water,” he said. In response to the crisis, Ms. Vicentia Sename Leyo, an aspiring District Chief Executive (DCE) for Agotime-Ziope, has promised short-term and long-term solutions to alleviate the water crisis.
She told the GNA that she was collaborating with local and national agencies to supply clean drinking water to the affected communities. “We are aware of the crisis, and I have made it a priority to get clean water to the people of Kpetoe. In the short term, I am arranging for water tankers to distribute safe drinking water while working on a permanent solution,” she assured.
As concerns mount over the health risks posed by the contaminated water, residents are calling for faster government intervention to provide safe drinking water. Without immediate action, the crisis could escalate, affecting the health and livelihoods of thousands.
Meanwhile, environmental experts warn that continued use of the polluted river could lead to serious health complications, including waterborne diseases and long-term exposure to toxic substances. The community now awaits the test results from the EPA, hoping that solutions will come before the situation worsens.
Source: GNA
