The Department of Public Health in Nakuru County has closed down all car wash outlets in South Lake, Naivasha, citing pollution concerns. The move affects several centers, including Karagita and DCK, which border Lake Naivasha. According to authorities, wastewater from the carwashes has been flowing into the drainage system without treatment, posing a risk to the lake's ecosystem.
Naivasha sub-county public health officer Margaret Mungai stated that the oil-contaminated water from the carwashes could worsen when the expected El Niño rains begin. The El Niño phenomenon is expected to bring heavy rainfall to the region, increasing the risk of water-borne diseases. Mungai emphasized that the department is taking proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with the approaching rains.
The closure of the carwash outlets is part of a broader effort to prepare for the El Niño rains. A multi-agency team has been deployed to demolish structures along drainage systems in the town, while the sub-county disaster management committee has been activated. The committee is working to unclog blocked drainage systems and issue water treatment tablets to residents.
The water supply to Naivasha GK prison has been restored following a dispute between the prison and the Naivasha Water, Sewerage and Sanitation Company (NAIVAWASCO). The water company had disconnected the supply to the staff quarters due to an illegal connection. Engineer Nahashon Wahome, the water company managing director, confirmed that the issue has been resolved, but warned that the company will not tolerate any illegal connections.
The prison department has been facing challenges due to low funding, which has affected its services, including transport, internet services, and warders' welfare. The restored water supply is a welcome relief for the prison, which relies on a stable water supply to operate effectively.
The Nakuru County government is taking proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with the approaching El Niño rains. The department of public health is working with other agencies to ensure that the town's drainage systems are functioning properly and that residents have access to clean water.
The efforts to prepare for the El Niño rains are ongoing, with a focus on preventing water-borne diseases and ensuring public safety. Residents are being advised to take precautions and report any concerns to the relevant authorities.
Key points
- The Nakuru County government has closed down carwash outlets in Naivasha due to pollution concerns, as El Niño rains approach.
- A multi-agency team has been deployed to demolish structures along drainage systems in the town, while the sub-county disaster management committee has been activated.
- The water supply to Naivasha GK prison has been restored following a dispute between the prison and the Naivasha Water, Sewerage and Sanitation Company (NAIVAWASCO).
