BY Grace Zigah
Residents across Accra and Tema are bracing up for a three-day water shortage following an emergency shutdown of the Kpong Water Treatment Plant.
The Ghana Water Limited (GWL) announced on Thursday, August 28, 2025, that operations at the facility had to be suspended due to a major damage on the raw water transmission pipeline.
According to management, the fault was detected on Thursday morning, compelling engineers to shut down the plant immediately to prevent further damage and begin urgent repair works.
Officials have estimated that the works could take up to three days, during which millions of residents in the capital and its surrounding communities will experience disruptions in water supply.
Communities to Be Affected
The shutdown is expected to hit households and businesses in the entire Tema Metropolis and several parts of Accra.
Affected areas include Ashaiman, Gbetsele, Katamanso, Klagon, Lashibi, Baatsonaa, Spintex, parts of East Legon, and adjoining communities.
GWL has urged residents in these areas to store sufficient quantities of water while supply remains available.
The company further assured the public that every effort is being made to expedite repair works to minimize the inconvenience caused.
Support for Critical Service Providers
Given the widespread impact, GWL has made provisions to assist essential institutions, particularly hospitals and schools, which may be severely affected by the water shortage.
The company has asked such facilities to reach out for support through its toll-free numbers, dedicated hotlines, WhatsApp platforms, and social media handles.
A Recurring Challenge
This latest disruption underscores the vulnerability of the capital city’s water infrastructure, particularly the Kpong facility, which supplies a significant portion of water to both Accra and Tema.
Over the years, the plant has faced frequent shutdowns due to pipeline bursts, mechanical faults, and routine maintenance.
Each time, residents and businesses have had to grapple with water shortages, resorting to private water tankers and boreholes at extra cost.
Assurances and Outlook
In a statement, GWL’s Public Relations and Communications Department assured customers that water supply would be restored immediately after repairs are completed.
“We sincerely regret the inconvenience this interruption may cause and appreciate the patience and understanding of our valued customers,” the statement read.
Residents are, however, worried that the three-day timeline could extend, as has been the case in past incidents. Many are already preparing for longer outages, stocking up on water and arranging for tanker supplies.
