Thika Water and Sewerage Company (Thiwasco) has raised alarm over rising cases of illegal water connections and vandalism of sewer infrastructure, warning that the vice is undermining efforts to improve water and sanitation services as the town prepares for elevation into a city.
The Company Managing Director, Eng Moses Kinya, said illegal water connections continue to contribute to massive water losses and disruption of supply across several parts of the town and its environs.
Speaking during the Company’s Annual General Meeting, Kinya revealed that at least 442 illegal water connections have been detected and disconnected within the last year as part of intensified surveillance and enforcement operations.
“We have intensified surveillance on illegal water connections and in the last one year alone, we have arrested and disconnected 442 illegal water connections. We are appealing to residents to report anyone engaging in illegal connections because this affects water supply to genuine customers and leads to huge losses for the company,” said Kinya.
He also expressed concern over increasing theft of manhole covers by vandals suspected to be targeting scrap metal markets, warning that the theft poses a major danger to residents.
“Some of these manholes are as deep as seven metres and are extremely dangerous when left open. The gases emitted from sewer lines can be fatal, while pedestrians and motorists can easily fall into the open manholes, especially during the night or when it rains,” Kinya said.
He added that floods worsen the situation, as silt and dirt enter sewer pipelines through the open manholes, leading to sewer blockages and overflows that pose serious sanitation and public health risks.
“When floods occur and manholes are left open, dirt and silt get into the sewer pipelines leading to blockages and sewer overflows, which then become a major sanitation concern for residents. We urge scrap metal dealers to reject any manhole covers brought to them because by doing so they will be supporting the Company in protecting critical infrastructure,” he said.
Currently, Thika’s daily water demand stands at about 62,000 cubic metres against an available supply of 42,000 cubic metres, leaving a significant deficit.
To address the shortfall, the Company said several expansion projects are underway, including the Kariminu 11 Dam Water Supply Project, which is expected to boost supply by an additional 20,000 cubic metres per day.
Funding arrangements for the African Development Bank-supported project are at an advanced stage. We are also working closely with Danida for a water project set to increase supply. The project has entered the tendering phase, with bids expected to be opened by September and a contractor expected on site next year.
The projects are expected to improve water reliability and support the growing population and industrial expansion as Thika moves closer to attaining city status.
By Muoki Charles
