Water crisis in Chivi as boreholes dry up

Upenyu Chaota

Chivi – The devastating effects of the El Nino-induced drought are taking a toll in Chivi district with communities in trouble as their main sources of water are drying up due to a declining water table.

Boreholes are pumping out air since they are no longer within reach of the water table.

Chivi Central legislator, Ephraim Gwanongodza said the water crisis looming in Chivi is a cause for concern and the government is working hard to ensure that there is provision for adequate clean water for everyone.

“The issue with water in Chivi is serious. The whole borehole system needs an overhaul because the depth is no longer viable.

“Chivi is a dry area and most boreholes were drilled with a depth of 40 metres which can only sustain people during the rainy season when the water table rises.

“During the dry season, the water table gets very low; beyond the reach of the pipes so we need to drill deeper beyond 60 metres,” said Gwanongodza.

“The government knows what is going on and there are plans to roll out borehole projects soon,” he added.

Livestock is also affected by the dry spell and people are digging in the river beds to salvage the remaining water spots for their animals.news