In a decisive move to tackle the alarming rise in illegal water connections and unauthorised commercial water sales, Ghana Water Limited (GWL) has initiated a nationwide crackdown, placing the spotlight on misuse of public water infrastructure—particularly fire hydrants operated by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).
Managing Director of GWL, Adam Mutawakilu, speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show on Wednesday, August 6, revealed that fire hydrants across the country have been officially banned from use due to persistent abuse and illegal tapping for profit, mostly involving water tankers.
“What we are seeing is quite disturbing,” Mr. Mutawakilu said. “Our preliminary assessments suggest that in many areas, the majority of those accessing hydrants are doing so illegally. We had no choice but to shut that system down temporarily to prevent further abuse and protect water supply for legitimate users.”
The move comes on the heels of an aggressive campaign launched by GWL on Tuesday, August 5. A newly deployed special task force is conducting surprise inspections at known commercial water collection points. Their mandate is to verify connections, identify culprits, and clamp down on unauthorised operators.
This enforcement operation is the strongest indication yet that GWL is taking a zero-tolerance approach to illegal water use, especially amid growing public frustration over irregular water supply in many communities.
Mr. Mutawakilu emphasized that the goal is not only to restore order in water distribution but also to safeguard public resources from institutional abuse, with reports implicating elements within the Ghana National Fire Service and private tanker operators in a black-market water trade.
“If the trend continues, and we find that 70% of users at a given hydrant point are not authorised, we will be forced to suspend tanker services in those areas,” the GWL boss warned.
By the end of August, GWL expects to complete its data analysis and implement sweeping reforms, which could include the revocation of permits for water tanker operators, stricter penalties for illegal connections, and the possible closure of commercial hydrant points indefinitely.
The crackdown signals a broader effort to enhance water governance, eliminate leakages in the system, and guarantee fair access for households and businesses who depend on regulated water supply.
As the inspections continue, Mr. Mutawakilu has urged the public to support the initiative by reporting illegal connections and helping to protect Ghana’s already strained water resources.
