Kalungu Town and its surrounding areas are eagerly counting down the days, filled with anticipation, as they await the historic moment when the first drop of water from the majestic Katonga River will flow through their taps with the help of the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC). This remarkable transformation is made possible by the ongoing Kalungu Water Supply Project, designed to resolve the longstanding water supply challenges in Bugomola, Lusango, Kyamulibwa, Kalungu Town, Luvule, Kamuli, Lugasa, and other neighboring communities.
This UGX17Billion project’s construction is being expertly executed by Zhonghao Overseas Construction & Engineering Co. Ltd, and completion is expected by November this year, signaling a new era of improved water access for the region.
The construction works, which include the establishment of a 4,000,000 litres/day Water Treatment Plant and associated infrastructure, have reached an advanced stage, with an overall completion estimated at approximately 70%.
In a recent interview with Mr. Mah, the Construction Manager from the contractor’s team, he revealed the progress of key project components. The Raw water intake on the Katonga River has seen the site opened and cleared, while 3.3km of the 4km Raw water line has already been laid. The Aerator, Coagulator, and Flocculator have reached 100% completion in terms of civil works, and the Clarifier is at 60% completion, with wall reinforcement accomplished and concrete casting in progress. The Filter, Clear water tank, and Main Distribution Reservoir have all achieved 100% completion in their civil works. The Backwash tank stands at 75% completion, with the stand already erected and the assembly of tank plates underway. The Staff house, Laboratory, and Store are at an impressive 90% completion, with internal finishes being worked on. Power extension to the treatment plant has been successfully completed. The laying of treated water lines is progressing well, with 5.3km of the 6.6km already laid, and 14km of the 20km distribution main already in place. The Area Administration Block is undergoing plastering and internal finishes. Orders for the necessary electromechanical equipment have already been placed.
As the works at the Water Treatment Plant near completion, the contractor has shifted focus towards the Intake, Main Reservoir, and Steel pipeline works. However, they have faced significant challenges, particularly adverse weather conditions. The flooding of the Katonga River intake and the poor road conditions preventing access to the reservoir site on Sala Hill have posed obstacles. Additionally, the collapse of the bridge connecting Kalungu to Gomba, which used to be a source of materials, has further disrupted the delivery process. To mitigate these challenges, the contractor has pledged to expedite the outstanding works once the weather stabilizes, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to completing the project on time.
During interactions with some of the project beneficiaries, their overwhelming joy and excitement were palpable. Ms. Nabukera, a resident of Bugomola, tearfully shared her story of currently relying on swamp water for daily needs. She expressed, “I was born into a family that has depended on this swamp water for generations. Unfortunately, we have had no alternative, and our children frequently fall ill as a result. We are beyond thrilled and eagerly await the completion of this life-changing project.” Mr. Katende, a resident of Kalungu Town, echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are surrounded by water sources, yet we have suffered from a lack of access. We eagerly anticipate this project, which will transform our lives.”
NWSC is committed to Water for all.
