Despite the onset of the rainy season, Guma Valley Water Company has announced the resumption of water rationing in the capital city, Freetown.

This decision, revealed in a press release dated June 20, 2021, has sparked surprise and concern among residents who expect increased water availability during this period.

Guma Valley, responsible for providing essential water services to Freetown, justified the rationing as necessary due to ongoing maintenance work on a critical 28-inch transmission pipeline located at Banga Farm (Mile 13). The completion of this maintenance is crucial for ensuring long-term water supply reliability in the city.

The company outlined a specific schedule for water supply, focusing notably on Thursdays, when water will be rationed. This move aims to manage the distribution effectively while infrastructure improvements are underway. Despite assurances from Guma Valley regarding the necessity and benefits of this maintenance, many residents remain skeptical about the timing, questioning why such measures are implemented during the rainy season when natural water sources are typically more abundant.

Access to adequate water has long been a pressing issue in Freetown, with frequent shortages impacting daily life for its residents. The reliance on rationing underscores the challenges faced by Guma Valley in balancing water supply against growing demand and aging infrastructure.

In response to public concerns, Guma Valley emphasized their commitment to completing the maintenance swiftly to minimize disruption. They urged residents to conserve water and adhere to the rationing schedule to ensure equitable distribution throughout the city.