Bauchi: The Bauchi State Urban Water and Sewerage Corporation (BSUWSC) has installed a 7.5 MVA transformer to help tackle persistent water scarcity in parts of the metropolis. General Manager of the corporation, Mr. Aliyu Gital, announced the development in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Bauchi.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the transformer is expected to significantly enhance the pumping capacity of water across four to five major tanks supplying the city. Mr. Gital stated that it will not only ensure consistent water supply but also support economic activities and improve public health, highlighting the essential role of water.

While acknowledging the progress, Gital noted that challenges remained. Recent pipe bursts were caused by increased water pressure, but maintenance crews are actively addressing the issue. He also mentioned ongoing discussions with leaders in the Unguwar Hardo Community to resolve water problems caused by the area’s hilly terrain. Gital reported that about 70 percent of the Hardo Community now has water, and he urged residents to avoid using substandard pipes to prevent future leaks.

Unguwar Hardo and Tudun Alkali are two densely populated communities in Bauchi suffering from severe water shortages. Residents report that families struggle daily to access clean water. Children often miss school to fetch water from distant sources, while adults spend hours in queues or walk miles carrying containers, sometimes with babies strapped to their backs.

Fatima Ajiya, a housewife from Unguwar Hardo, shared her experience, mentioning that sometimes they leave home so early in search of water that they miss their morning prayers. Malam Muhammad Adamu, the community leader (Mai Unguwa) of Unguwar Hardo, expressed deep concern over the crisis, particularly its impact on girls’ education. He advised the state governor to prioritize the issue, emphasizing that such a situation should not be allowed to persist in the heart of Bauchi metropolis.