The Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has announced the temporary shutdown of the Teshie-Nungua Desalination Plant due to unresolved contractual challenges.

The company also cited the lack of critical maintenance work required to sustain efficient and safe operations.

The plant, which has served as a vital source of potable water for thousands of residents along Accra’s eastern coastal corridor, including Teshie, Nungua, Spintex, La, and parts of Sakumono, has faced increasing operational strain in recent months.

According to the management of the company, the decision to suspend operations is intended to safeguard the long-term integrity and reliability of the facility.

In a statement signed and issued in Accra by Public Relations and Communications Manager, GWL, Mr. Stanley Martey, said that delays in fulfilling servicing obligations under existing agreements had significantly affected the plant’s output, making it necessary to halt operations temporarily.

The company noted that the decision, though regrettable, was essential to ensure the safety, functionality, and sustainability of the facility.

GWL acknowledged that the shutdown would inconvenience many residents and businesses in the affected areas.

As part of mitigation measures, the company has begun rerouting water from alternative treatment plants and deploying water tankers to the most affected communities.

Essential service facilities such as hospitals, schools, and health centres have also been prioritised in the interim supply arrangements.

To ensure equitable distribution, the company has rolled out a demand management programme aimed at optimising water delivery across the eastern corridor.

“We are working closely with the operators and relevant stakeholders to minimise the impact on our valued customers,” the management assured.

Technical teams have begun a series of assessments, contractual reviews, and stakeholder consultations to resolve the underlying issues and expedite the plant’s restoration.

The objective, according to GWL, is to ensure that once operations resume, the desalination plant functions efficiently and sustainably.

“The company remains fully committed to providing safe, reliable, and continuous water supply services to all Ghanaians. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused and appreciate the patience, understanding, and cooperation of our cherished customers,” the release stated.

GWL further indicated that regular updates on the progress of the maintenance work and timelines for restoration would be shared through its official website, social media platforms, the media, and community engagement representatives.

It reiterated its deep regret for the inconvenience the shutdown may cause, assuring the public that all efforts were being made to restore operations as swiftly as possible while prioritising the safety and efficiency of the desalination infrastructure.

Residents and customers experiencing supply challenges have been urged to contact GWL through its toll-free line — 0800 40000 (on Vodafone) — or via 0302 2218240 and mobile numbers 0207385088, 0207385089, and 0207385090.

The company has also made available WhatsApp lines 0555123393 and 0555155524 for quick assistance and enquiries.