The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) has halted operations at the Bonsa Headworks treatment plant in Tarkwa, citing severe pollution of the Bonsa River caused by illegal mining activities, commonly known as ‘Galamsey.’
Ghana Water Limited shuts down treatment plant in Tarkwa over pollution from Galamsey… #GHOneNews #EIBNetwork #GHOneTV #NewsAlert pic.twitter.com/ujlBnXIjv4
— GHOne TV (@ghonetv) January 3, 2025
This treatment plant is a critical source of potable water, supplying approximately 75% of Tarkwa Township and its surrounding communities. Despite attempts to tap into alternative water sources, efforts have been unsuccessful, leaving the area without a substantial portion of its water supply.
Where is Cheddar, who told Ghanaians that the ‘Stop Galamsey Now’ protest was just an NDC funded political gimmick? 3 months after that demonstration, GWCL has shut down the Tarkwa water treatment plant because Bonsa River has been polluted by galamsey. NEVER POLITICIZE GALAMSEY!
— Mirpuri (@InterBoyTM) January 3, 2025
The shutdown remains in effect as authorities monitor the river for signs of improved water quality. Resumption of operations is contingent upon significant reductions in pollution levels.
A report on galamsey should lead with these types of pictures to show us how bad and specific the damage is.
This government is leaving a mess in every single sector. Fixing things will not be easy. https://t.co/DlesDimabf— KOA (@KwabenaOA) January 3, 2025
The incident highlights the ongoing environmental and social challenges posed by illegal mining in the region.
