90% of boreholes in Lira city contaminated

17 May 2025, 5:00 pm

By Denis Okello

Lira

Water from nearly 90% of boreholes in Lira city has been found to be unsafe for human consumption, according to the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC).

Gerazio Tukahirwa, NWSC manager for the Lira branch, revealed that most of the boreholes in the city are contaminated, contrary to the common belief among residents that borehole water is safe to drink.

He added that the corporation plans to conduct comprehensive water quality tests on all boreholes in Lira city.

Boreholes found to be unsafe will be closed to protect residents from potential health risks.

Tukahirwa also noted that the government has suspended new borehole drilling in Lira city.

He stated that anyone wishing to drill a new borehole must first obtain clearance from the Managing Director of the National Water and Sewerage Corporation.