The Plateau government has awarded a N30 billion contract for the rehabilitation and construction of conservation structures at the Langtang Dam to boost water supply.

Governor Caleb Mutfwang, at the contract signing on Saturday in Jos, said the project was a testament to his administration’s commitment to resolving water scarcity affecting the southern senatorial district of the state.

He explained that the contract was awarded under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape (ACReSAL) project, a World Bank-funded initiative in partnership with the state government.

Mr Mutfwang disclosed that the project at Langtang North Local Government Area (LGA) would be completed within 30 months.

“We inherited a water sector that was virtually on its knees; for years, the Yakubu Gowon Dam had no serious intervention, leading to epileptic water supply within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis.

“We are, however, working tirelessly to fix the problem; each time we address one issue, another emerges, but we are tackling it holistically.

“God helping us. In the next six months, we aim to resolve the challenges surrounding the Yakubu Gowon Dam and other key dams within the metropolis,” Mr Mutfwang said.

He said the project is financed through a loan secured under the World Bank framework in collaboration with other northern states.

“The project is designed to combat desertification, ensuring sustainable water supply and environmental restoration.

“The scope of the project also includes the desilting of the two dams in Langtang north, the construction of hedge rows to minimise future siltation and the maintenance of washout embankments with laterite filling compacted to 100 per cent standards,” he said.

The governor added that the project would also include planting grass and trees to prevent erosion, enhance environmental preservation and curb land degradation.

Mr Mutfwang further explained that the interventions would ensure a stable water supply in the southern part of the state.

Garba Gonkol, the project coordinator of ACReSAL in the state, commended the governor for prioritising projects that positively impact the lives of citizens.

Similarly, Akin Fagbohun, the project engineer and contractor, promised to complete the project within specifications.

(NAN)