• Warns against open defecation, dumping of waste in the river
A section of the perimeter fence of the intake station at Otamiri Waterworks suffered a catastrophic collapse due to the brazen and persistent theft of iron rods by miscreants, leaving the facility vulnerable to authorized entry and posing significant concerns for the Corporation’s infrastructure.
The incident was discovered by ISWSC’s personnel during their routine inspection. The miscreants, taking advantage of the cover of darkness or pretending to come to take their bath near the river, reportedly dismantled the iron rods that held the concrete sections of the fence together, exposing it to eventual damage by torrential rainfall that caused severe flooding around the area.
The incident has prompted the Managing Director/CEO of Imo State Water and Sewerage Corporation (ISWSC) Engr Emeka Celestine Ugoanyanwu to swiftly visit the site in person and assess firsthand the extent of the damage, urging the implementation of the stronger security measures.
Expressing his deep disappointment and concern, he emphasized the urgent need for enhanced security to combat the persistent trespassing and theft around the Corporation’s premises.
“It is disheartening to witness the damage caused by these miscreants who not only steal valuable materials but also deface our facilities,” stated the Managing Director during his visit.
“We have our internal security arrangement who are diligently working but we require additional support from the law enforcement agencies in the state to effectively collaborate with us to apprehend these culprits and maintain the safety and integrity of our infrastructure.”
Engr Ugoanyanwu was also deeply concerned about open defecation around the fence, stating “This unhygienic practice poses health risks, defiles the environment, and undermines our underground water sources.”
He also bemoaned other human activities in Otamiri River, warning that irresponsible disposal of garbage and pollutants not only poses immediate environmental hazards but also jeopardizes the long-term health and sustainability of the river’s ecosystem.
The Managing Director also urged the public to report any suspicious activities near the waterworks to the relevant authorities.
Efforts are underway to repair and reinforce the damaged fence, with immediate plans to beef up the human surveillance systems to deter future incidents.
The Managing Director has assured the public that the Corporation is committed to safeguarding its facilities through a collaborative effort.
ISWSC remains determined to overcome these challenges and continue its vital mission of providing sustainable affordable safely managed water and sanitation services to residents of Imo and its environs.
MISCREANTS COLLAPSE FENCE OF OTAMIRI WATERWORKS
• MD calls for increased security measures
• Warns against open defecation, dumping of waste in the river
A section of the perimeter fence of the intake station at Otamiri Waterworks suffered a catastrophic collapse due to the brazen and persistent theft of iron rods by miscreants, leaving the facility vulnerable to authorized entry and posing significant concerns for the Corporation’s infrastructure.
The incident was discovered by ISWSC’s personnel during their routine inspection. The miscreants, taking advantage of the cover of darkness or pretending to come to take their bath near the river, reportedly dismantled the iron rods that held the concrete sections of the fence together, exposing it to eventual damage by torrential rainfall that caused severe flooding around the area.
The incident has prompted the Managing Director/CEO of Imo State Water and Sewerage Corporation (ISWSC) Engr Emeka Celestine Ugoanyanwu to swiftly visit the site in person and assess firsthand the extent of the damage, urging the implementation of the stronger security measures.
Expressing his deep disappointment and concern, he emphasized the urgent need for enhanced security to combat the persistent trespassing and theft around the Corporation’s premises.
“It is disheartening to witness the damage caused by these miscreants who not only steal valuable materials but also deface our facilities,” stated the Managing Director during his visit.
“We have our internal security arrangement who are diligently working but we require additional support from the law enforcement agencies in the state to effectively collaborate with us to apprehend these culprits and maintain the safety and integrity of our infrastructure.”
Engr Ugoanyanwu was also deeply concerned about open defecation around the fence, stating “This unhygienic practice poses health risks, defiles the environment, and undermines our underground water sources.”
He also bemoaned other human activities in Otamiri River, warning that irresponsible disposal of garbage and pollutants not only poses immediate environmental hazards but also jeopardizes the long-term health and sustainability of the river’s ecosystem.
The Managing Director also urged the public to report any suspicious activities near the waterworks to the relevant authorities.
Efforts are underway to repair and reinforce the damaged fence, with immediate plans to beef up the human surveillance systems to deter future incidents.
The Managing Director has assured the public that the Corporation is committed to safeguarding its facilities through a collaborative effort.
ISWSC remains determined to overcome these challenges and continue its vital mission of providing sustainable affordable safely managed water and sanitation services to residents of Imo and its environs.
Christopher Ononukwe
Communications Desk Officer