Power cuts worsen water crisis

VIMBAI TANDI

The power crisis in the country has worsened the water crisis which has become a perennial challenge mainly for Harare while also exacerbating the already crippling Cholera scourge.

Harare is faced with a water crisis that has gone on for years with no solution.

The crisis has led to desperate residents resorting to shallow sources risking waterborne diseases.

Hospitals, clinics and other facilities have been the most hit by the crisis.

Council yesterday confirmed the power crisis had led to the temporary shutdown of the Morton Jaffray water works.

“The City of Harare wishes to inform the residents and stakeholders that there has been no water production from the Morton Jaffray Water Works since 02:30 due to power failure. ZESA is working flat out to restore power supplies as soon as possible,” council said in a statement.

While council remained hopeful the power crisis would be restored leading to water being pumped, the power utility recently issued a warning saying they were overwhelmed by faults and would take long to attend to some.

Council has, for several reasons including the power crisis, reduced pumping of the precious liquid with Prince Edward now supplying 55 ML/Day from 90 ML/Day.