A recurrent water quality challenge, which is encountered worldwide, is the presence of Iron in its ferrous ion (Fe2+) state. Iron is often found naturally in surface water (lake and river waters) and groundwater sources. In addition to its natural occurrence, Iron in water can also be present as a result of corrosion of iron water pipelines. For Bonga’s particular case, groundwater sources concentrate this element in high concentration-ranging between 0.75 and 6.8 ppm. Although Iron is among the essential elements for human health, iron levels greater than 2 ppm could pose health risks to the general public (Drinking Water Guidelines, WHO).
Following Bonga’s Water Treatment Plant’s failure to meet its full performance, MoWE decided to engage MS Consultancy PLC. to:
- review the design of the plant,
- identify areas of the problem, and
- provide a design solution
for rectifying and upgrading the system to render the desired services. Therefore, the rationale of this consultancy contract is for the Consultant to provide a road map towards attaining a functioning treatment system through upgrading or remedying the defects of the existing treatment plants as appropriate by engaging contractors in a competitive bid to implement the sought solutions.
In June 2022, the Consultant documented its initial findings and remedial action plans with associated draft designs in its “Situation Assessment and Proposal of Interventions, Decision-Making Document” Report.
On August 4th, 2022, The Consultant presented its report in two segments (i.e. rehabilitation of the treatment plant & Water source/storage facilities). The presentation, followed by a session of discussion, gathered different stakeholders including Bonga Water Utility personnel. The Client, the Consultant, as well as attendees discussed, amongst others, issues relating to the adopted study methodology and defects of treatment units.
As a concluding remark, the Client emphasized that the regional water bureau has to understand that this program targets remedying the failed treatment plant to conclude the contract. Expansion of the existing distribution system along with investigation of additional water sources will be the subject of another separate project.