Residents of Kpetoe in the Volta Region remain at risk as they continue to consume water contaminated by agrochemicals, following a recent truck accident that spilled chemicals into the River Tordze.
Despite official warnings about water contamination, residents of Kpetoe and surrounding areas continue to rely on the polluted Tordze River for their daily water needs, amid growing concerns of their health and safety.
A truck from neighbouring Togo, recently plunged into the Tordze River, spilling chemicals that have severely polluted the water.
The river, which flows from Togo into Kpetoe, is a primary source of water for the local community.
The Volta Regional Coordinating Council and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have already issued statements confirming the pollution.
However, the affected residents remain in a dire situation, with no alternative source of clean water in sight.
The Struggle for Clean Water
Our reporter, Christian Ahodie, visited the community to witness firsthand the alarming reality for residents. During his visit, community members were seen fetching water from the polluted river for domestic use.
In interviews, many expressed their fear and frustration, but also their lack of choice.
Without access to clean water, they say they have no option but to continue using the contaminated water for cooking, cleaning, and even drinking.
“We know the water is contaminated, but we have no other choice. We are living in fear every day,” said one local, who wished to remain anonymous.
Another resident, Diana Gomado, echoed similar concerns. “We don’t know what to do. The water has been bad for weeks, and we are just waiting for help. But so far, nothing has changed.”
Authorities Respond
Vicentia Sename Leyo, the aspiring District Chief Executive for Agotime Kpetoe, shared her plans to address the water crisis.
In a phone interview, Vincentia Leyo stated that she is working with local and national agencies to supply the community with clean drinking water as soon as possible.
“We are aware of the crisis, and I have made it a priority to get clean water to the people of Kpetoe. We are working on a solution,” Leyo said.
Meanwhile, the Volta Regional Director of the EPA, Eng. Cujoe Zu, confirmed that the EPA and the Water Resources Commission have not yet released the test results regarding the safety of the water.
This delay has become a concern to the residents who continue to face health risks.
“We are waiting for the official results before we can make further recommendations. In the meantime, we urge the community to avoid using the contaminated water,” Eng. Zu stated.
Way forward
The situation in Kpetoe remains critical. With the community lacking access to clean water and the dangers of chemical contamination lingering, the residents are left in a limbo, hoping for timely intervention from the relevant authorities.
As more updates are expected from the EPA and the Water Resources Commission, Kpetoe’s residents continue to live in fear of the long-term health consequences of their daily water use.
Our reporter Christian Ahodie will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
Ghana l Atinkaonline.com l Christian Ahodie
