Shekarau Commissions N5.3b Water Plant

Barely 10 days to the end of his tenure, the governor of Kano state, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau has commissioned another landmark project of his administration, the multi–billion naira Watari Water plant.

Built at the cost of N5.3 billion by the consortium of Paterson Candy International and Costain West Africa, the project was conceived and solely funded by the state government as part of measures to mitigate the recurrent water scarcity facing parts of the state.

The project which was renamed Alhaji Audu Bako Water Works in memory of the first administrator of the state has a 75 million litres daily production capacity and is equipped with the latest facilities including raw water intakes station, treated water pumps station, chemical storage and dosing room as well as a system instrument monitoring device.

It also has generator house, Chlorine building, an elevated service water tank, concrete Chlorine tank, 4 Unit of Flat bottom clarifiers, 6 sets of rapid gravity holders, staff quarters and administrative block.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Governor Shekarau said although the government may not be able to meet the total water needs of the public at the moment, the pace has been set by embarking on two gigantic water projects in the past eight years.

Malam Shekarau who noted that adequate water supply has eluded the state for many years expressed the hope that successive administrations will build on the legacies of his government to make life more meaningful for the people.

The governor who dwelt on the importance of water to human existence cautioned that it should not be wasted and that the people should reciprocate the gesture by paying their water bills promptly.

On his part, the Chief Executive Officer, PCI, Mr. Cletus Azeh said the project was started two years ago, adding that test – running of the project started six weeks ago.

He explained that communites in Bagwai and Bichi local government area have started to enjoy steady water supply.

Mr. Azeh stated that the project is worthy of pride, stressing the need for the government and citizens of the state to maintain the plant in view of the huge investment and for the benefit of posterity.
When at full working capacity, the new water works will serve communities in Bagwai, Shanono, Bichi, Tsanyawa, Dawakin Tofa, Tofa, Ungoggo and parts of Fagge local government area.

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano