Pipeline Bursts Disrupt Water Supply in Sokoto as Water Board Promises Quick Restoration

From Bashir Rabe Mani, Sokoto

The Sokoto State Water Board has attributed the disruption of potable water supply across Sokoto metropolis and adjoining communities to repeated bursts on major pipelines conveying raw water from the Rima River to the treatment plant.

The General Manager of the Board, Engr. Aminu Haruna Mika’ilu, disclosed this while providing an update on efforts to repair the damaged pipelines and restore normal water supply to residents.

Mika’ilu explained that two major raw-water pipelines located along the Kware road, close to the treatment plant, were damaged, forcing the Board to suspend operations.

“We have had some difficulties in providing water as we used to in the metropolis. This occurred due to our two main pipelines that supply raw water from Rima River, which got damaged close to our treatment plant,” he said.

According to him, the Board subsequently rehabilitated an alternative pipeline constructed during the administration of former Governor Attahiru Bafarawa to temporarily restore water supply.

He, however, said the alternative pipeline developed another fault shortly after pumping operations resumed.

“The pipeline was rehabilitated and put to use on Friday. However, a few hours after pumping commenced, another burst occurred near the Sokoto Bridge, forcing another shutdown,” Mika’ilu said.

The General Manager explained that the alternative pipeline had remained unused for more than two decades, resulting in structural deficiencies that made it vulnerable to pressure-related bursts.

“With the help of God, we hope to rectify the issue in the next few days, Insha’Allah. The pipeline has not been used for over 20 years and it has some structural deficiencies that create a lot of pressure, making it burst any time we try it,” he added.

Mika’ilu commended Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu for providing financial and other necessary support to enable the Water Board to address the crisis.

He said the governor responded immediately after being briefed about the situation and provided funds to facilitate the rehabilitation work.

The General Manager noted that access to clean and adequate potable water remained a priority of the administration and formed part of the governor’s 9-Point Smart Agenda.

He appealed to residents of Sokoto metropolis and its environs to remain patient while engineers work to resolve the problem.

“We have not rested. We are doing our best to see that the system is working. These unfortunate incidents happen, but we are up on our heels to make sure the issue is resolved as soon as possible,” he said.

As part of measures to reduce the impact of the shortage, Mika’ilu said the Board was also utilising water from the Sokoto River through two other treatment plants to supplement supply pending the completion of repairs on the damaged pipelines.

The Board expressed optimism that normal water supply would be restored once the ongoing repair works are completed.