By Jeno Richard-Odu
The Cross River State Government has initiated plans to restore potable water supply to households across the three senatorial districts, as part of efforts to address the persistent water challenges faced by residents for both domestic and commercial use.
The intervention, when fully implemented, will leverage integrated solar-powered borehole systems to ensure sustainable and uninterrupted access to clean water.
Speaking in an interview with journalists in Calabar, the Commissioner for Water Resources, Barr. Offiong Mensah, expressed concern over the hardship experienced by citizens in accessing potable water, noting that the present administration is committed to reversing the situation.
He described it as unacceptable that a state endowed with abundant water resources continues to face supply challenges, emphasising the government’s resolve to change the narrative.
The Commissioner disclosed that over 600 boreholes previously drilled across the state in collaboration with development partners had become largely non-functional due to communities’ inability to sustain fuel-powered generators. He explained that the decision to convert these facilities to solar-powered systems was aimed at ensuring efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.
Barr. Mensah expressed optimism that the initiative would significantly improve access to water in affected communities, pending the full revitalisation of the State Water Board.
He also highlighted the successful operation of recently commissioned solar-powered boreholes at Primary School Academy, Government Girls’ Secondary School, Big Qua, and Edgerley Memorial Girls’ Secondary School, noting that they are already meeting the water needs of surrounding communities.
The Commissioner appealed to residents to remain patient with the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu, assuring that ongoing interventions would soon bring lasting relief and make water scarcity a thing of the past.
