ZNS upbeat on burying shallow wells

Sat, 30 Dec 2017 13:20:32 +0000

ZAMBIA National Service (ZNS) Commandant Lieutenant General Nathan Mulenga is happy with the pace at which ZNS is working to bury all contaminated shallow wells in Garden and Kanyama compounds.

Speaking when he conducted a spot check on burying of shallow walls and installation of water tanks yesterday in Lusaka by ZNS staff, Lt. Gen Mulenga said he was happy with progress made so far.

He said he was confident that ZNS would complete the exercise within the stipulated period.

Gen. Mulenga said the zeal of the men was impressive and that he was confident the fight would be won and people’s lives would no longer be at risk.

Gen. Mulenga said so far 65 water tanks had been installed in Kanyama compound though the target was 100.

He said 18 had been installed in Garden compound where many shallow wells had also been buried.

Gen. Mulenga said some of the wells were not as shallow as portrayed because they were 15 to 20 metres deep, too deep to be called shallow.

 This, he explained, posed an even bigger challenge for his staff but stated that despite this, the team was equal to the task.

Gen Mulenga who described the situation as an emergency, explained that ZNS would ensure it provided the required support in safeguarding the lives of the citizens.

He said all contaminated shallow wells would be buried without compromise and appealed to the residents to desist from vandalising the tanks that had been installed at great cost.

He said ZNS had experienced a situation where some water taps were installed but later stolen and vandalized.

Gen. Mulenga appealed to the affected communities to remain patient as ZNS was doing everything possible to bring the situation under control by providing the necessary support.

“You have seen for yourselves the zeal with which our men are working. It is impressive and I am confident we are going to win the fight.

 “You can agree with me that this is an emergency and we are just mobilizing,” said Lt. Gen. Mulenga.

“We have not had this situation in a long time, this is actually an emergency, but will be on top of things,” said Lt Gen Mulenga.