By Jane Chanda
Water Resources Management Authority (WARMA) says the authority has penalised 45 companies in August 2024 alone for non-compliance with water usage and illegal activities,
In a statement released today, WARMA senior public relations and communications officer Smart Kalaluka stated that Sable was among the companies punished, including several other mining firms he did not mention in Central Province.
Kalaluka stated that the authority had intensified compliance inspections across the country to ensure responsible water use and curb illegal activities affecting water resources.
He stated that 45 companies in August alone had been penalisec for non-compliance with water use regulations and illegal activities.
“We have launched robust compliance inspections as part of our drought response programme to ensure that water resources are protected and used responsibly,” Kalaluka stated.
He stated that Sable Transport Limited, was fined for blocking a stream and obstracting water for commercial purposes without a permit in Katete District, Eastern Province.
Kalaluka noted that the company’s actions had denied 40 out of 55 villages access to water for domestic and livestock use.
Kalaluka pointed out that WARMA would strictly enforce existing regulations and laws to curb encroachment, illegal water use, pollution, and other vices affecting water resources.
“We are committed to ensuring that equitable allocation of water is achieved even amidst the drought, but priority is given to domestic and non-commercial usage,” he stated.
Kalaluka urged members of the public to promote efficient water conservation and encouraged commercial water users to comply with regulations and obtain necessary permits to avoid penalties.
Kalaluka added that WARMA’s actions were aimed at safeguarding the country’s water resources for future generations.
“We cannot afford to compromise the health of our water resources, and we will take stern action against those who disregard the law,” he stated.
Kalaluka also appealed to the public to report any instances of illegal water use or pollution to WARMA.
“We rely on the public’s support to protect our water resources, and we encourage anyone with information to come forward and help us take action against those who are breaking the law,” stated Kalaluka.
