- Enforces Hygiene Standards For Table Water Producers
By Jumai Nwachukwu/Ifeanyi Uwagwu
IN a decisive effort to maintain hygienic standards in table water production amidst nationwide cholera outbreak, the Delta State Water Sector Regulatory Commission (DESUWAREC) has announced plans to sanction members of the Association of Table Water Producers (ATWAP), who fail to meet environmental and sanitary benchmarks.
The Director of Monitoring and Compliance at DESUWAREC, Mr. Victor Osemeke, gave the hint during a sensitization visit to ATWAP members in Warri and its environs.
The visit was aimed at familiarizing producers with the commission and its regulatory role in water supply, waste water, and sewage management in Delta State.
“We are here to liaise with you as critical stakeholders in the state’s water supply sector, to ensure we collaborate effectively to improve the state’s water sector,” Osemeke stated.
He emphasized that, while DESUWAREC’s objective is to enforce standards, it is not intended to put producers out of business, stressing that the goal was to ensure that their operations adhere to hygienic practices, especially given the current cholera outbreak, which is primarily spread through contaminated water.
“I want to assure you that we are not here to disrupt your businesses, but to ensure your products are safe for human consumption. Those who fail to comply with the standards will face sanctions when inspections begin,” Osemeke added.
Legal Advisor to the Commission, Mrs. Ejiro Akpimegin, highlighted the importance of collaboration between DESUWAREC and ATWAP. She pointed out that water, being essential for human life, must be safe and accessible. She also referenced the commission’s efforts to find common ground with ATWAP during the recent table water price hike.
ATWAP Zonal Coordinator, Comrade Cletus Ebohon, expressed gratitude for the informative visit and outlined several challenges faced by the association. He cited issues with the N1,500 per truck levy by the Ministry of Transport and other taxes, and sought clarification on the roles of other regulatory bodies like NAFDAC and the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON).
Mr. Osemeke assured the association that their concerns would be addressed and mentioned that efforts were underway to create a harmonized taxation system.
Other members of the team include the Commission’s Director of Administration and Finance Mr Ben Asenime, Ms Esther Osakwe, Laboratory Scientist and Mrs Ese Okoh.
