Residents of Homa Bay County have been warned against vandalizing equipment for distributing water in the area.
Homa Bay Water and Sanitation Company (Homawasco) Managing Director Thomas Nyonje expressed concerns that some criminal elements were vandalizing pipes and other infrastructure for sale and other motives.
This comes amidst concerns over persistent water scarcity in Homa Bay Town and its environs due to the vandalism.
Nyonje said they had discovered that some people in the business of selling water vandalize the distribution networks in order to create demand for their water.
“They are sabotaging the normal supply of water to compel residents to buy their water, but we will ensure that they are brought to book,” he warned.
The MD said they have made efforts to bridge the water supply gaps but it was unfortunate that some people with commercial interests still vandalize equipment for evil gains.
Addressing journalists during an inspection of a treatment plant in Homa Bay Town, Nyonje said they will not tolerate people who cause artificial water shortages in the county.
“There is only one option: leave our water pipes alone for residents to get water or face the full force of the law. We are waging total war against people who vandalize our pipes,” Nyonje added.
He said they were engaging police to crack the whip on people who destroy water distribution equipment saying that the culprits will be arrested and charged.
“Destroying water pipes is tantamount to denying residents a basic human right. We have strengthened surveillance to nab the perpetrators of this vice,” he added.
Nyonye urged residents to report to authorities anybody destroying water pipes in the area.
He assured the residents of an adequate supply of safe and clean water for domestic purposes.
Nyonje said they were working with the Ministry of Water through the Lake Victoria Water Works Development Agency to expand water supply in the county.
“These include rehabilitation of the Ogande pipe line. They also include the last mile connectivity in Sindo, Mbita and Homa Bay towns, among others,” Nyonje added.
By Davis Langat
