The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) says the implementation of the second phase of government’s free water supply, stipulated in the mid-year budget, will begin this July and end in September.
“Management wishes to inform the general public that the implementation of the President’s directive is in progress,” a press statement released by GWCL stated.
The management said that since the free water supply is for all to enjoy, landlords who sell water to tenants are entreated to allow them to use the water for free for July, August, and September.
“All metered stand-pipes on category 643 shall be used to serve citizens for free. Vendors are expected to still control the services to the public as usual. This is to ensure the prudent use of water.”
Although the water is free for all, GWCL stated that citizens with outstanding arrears will be exempted from enjoying the services.
“Customers in arrears must negotiate with the District Offices and or Regional Offices for flexible terms of payment to enable them settle their arrears, then they can be reconnected to enable them enjoy the free water services.”
In April this year, the president announced three months of free electricity for consumers of a particular category, to make up for lost income following a lockdown in Accra and Kumasi due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
He also announced government’s decision to absorb water bills for all Ghanaians for April, May, and June following complaints of lack of potable drinking water in many communities affected by the lockdown.
President Nana Akufo-Addo said the decision is part of additional measures being taken by the government to mitigate the impact the outbreak of the virus is having on the public.
Announcing yet another package for the citizenry, Fiance Minister Mr. Ofori-Atta at the mid-year budget review said it is meant to ease the burden of the virus that has wreaked havoc on the world over.
According to the Minister, the free water initiative would be for all water consumers while the electricity supply would be limited to only lifeline consumers.
