Sokoto unveils measures to tackle acute water shortage

The Sokoto state government has announced measures to deal with the shortage of potable water confronting residents, amid sweltering temperatures of over 42 degree Celsius.

NAN reports that taps are dry across the state and residents have been groaning from the shortage.

Yusuf Maccido, Sokoto state commissioner for water resources, said the government has set up a committee headed by Idris Gobir, deputy governor, which will deploy water tankers across communities.

The committee has also been tasked with fixing damaged water pumps and ensuring the dredging of dams in the medium and long term.

Maccido said funds have been released to the committee, adding that some water engineers and experts from Kaduna have been tapped to support the state water board with the repair of facilities.

He added that government plans to complete the dredging of Bakalori, Goronyo and Luga dams.

“We are targeting at least 80 percent supply of potable water after rehabilitation of the systems. At present, below 20 percent is being utilised,” he said.

“We are determined to ensure that dams, machineries and other facilities function to high capacity before the end of the tenure of the present administration.”

Maccido also appealed to Sokoto residents to show more understanding, and assured them that government is ready to end the discomfort caused by the lack of potable water.