By: Ben TC Brooks
Residents of Lawrenceville Community in Fish-Town are currently facing a critical shortage of clean drinking water after their community hand pump malfunctioned.
The hand pump, constructed in 2011 by Welthungerhilfe (WHH) formerly known as German Agro Action (GAA), has not been repaired since it stopped functioning.
The hand pump serves as the primary source of clean water for the residents and its damaged condition is causing a significant water scarcity issue in the community.
Without access to clean drinking water, residents are at risk of health problems as they are compelled to use alternative water sources, such as contaminated well water. The lack of safe drinking water may lead to waterborne diseases and other health issues if not addressed promptly.
Community Chairman Ezekiel Twah Gbeh and Lawrence Totoe, a resident, have expressed concern over the distressing situation caused by the damaged hand pump that is vital for the community’s water supply.
“We have over 4,000 residents in the Lawrenceville Community of Fish-Town, primarily women and children, and we are facing a shortage of safe drinking water. The hand pump is not functioning properly, and we urgently need assistance,” said Chairman Ezekiel Twah Gbeh of Lawrenceville Community Fish-Town.
Efforts have been made to seek help by reaching out to local radio stations engaging with authorities, and contacting humanitarian organizations, but no response has been received so far.
As more people continue to move into the community, the demand for water is increasing, exacerbating the situation.
Urgent intervention is required to address the water crisis in the Lawrenceville Community and ensure that all residents have access to safe and reliable drinking water.
However, the incident underscores the importance of investing in water infrastructure and implementing sustainable water management practices to prevent similar shortages in the future and safeguard the health and well-being of the community members.
Lawrenceville Community is located opposite the Fish-Town general market with the population of about 4000 residents according to its Chairman.
