The Lumakanda main water supply source

Water supply services At Lumakanda Trading Centre and its environs have completely been paralyzed after a transformer supplying power to the area’s main water supply pump ceased functioning.

Speaking to West FM, Lugari District Water Officer Mr. Albert Kulundu confirmed that water supply services in the area, which is also headquarters of Lugari district, have been interrupted after the transformer developed a problem due to power fluctuation.

An electrician in the area has established that the transformer’s power fuses blew, hence making it impossible for power to be transmitted to the water supply pump.

The water officer disclosed that power supply has been fluctuating between 200V and 270V, a problem he said has adversely affected the main water supply pump which requires about 220V for it to operate smoothly.

The transformer which developed a problem due to power fluctuation interrupting water supply within Lumakanda Town and its environs

According to Kulundu, the area has been experiencing water supply problems, with some parts completely missing the commodity, since mid last month when Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) began rehabilitating its transformers and lines in the region.

 “Since KPLC began replacement and installation of transformers early in the month of June we have had serious problems of water supply to our clients within Lumakanda trading centre and its environs but now with the transformer malfunction the whole area has been cut out of water supply completely,” said Kulundu.

 “The power has at times gone below 200V,” added Kulundu.

He, however, blamed KPLC accusing it for not taking any necessary actions, even after he officially complained in writing to them about the problem in a letter dated 6th July 2012.

The worst sections that have been hit by absence of this vital commodity include Lugari District headquarters offices, Lugari District Hospital, two secondary and three primary schools.

Kulundu has appealed to area residents to remain calm as his office handles the problem while at the same urging KPLC regional offices in Eldoret to quickly step in and help arrest the situation.