Price of Pure Water Increases by 100% in Abia State- See Current Price
Sachet Water Prices Double in Abia State, Prompting Concerns Over Public Health
In a significant development within Abia State, the cost of sachet water—widely referred to as “pure water”—has surged by 100%, leading to widespread consternation among inhabitants of Umuahia and other regions. This price hike has compelled many residents to turn to boreholes and various public water sources for their hydration needs.
GoldenNewsNg gathered that the price for a single sachet of water has escalated to N50, marking a departure from the previous rate of two sachets for N50, observed just a fortnight ago. Furthermore, the cost of a 20-sachet bag now ranges from N400 to N450, a significant increase from the N300 charged by retailers earlier.
A survey traces the origin of this price inflation to a two-day strike staged by the Table and Sachet Water Producers Association in Abia State. Post-strike, the association adjusted the price per bag to N350, up from N250, causing retail outlets to elevate the price per sachet to N50.
Interviews conducted by DAILY POST with state residents revealed a shift towards consuming water directly from boreholes and other communal sources. While acknowledging the potential health risks associated with such practices, they urged both the producers and the state government to find an expedient solution to the crisis.
Terry Omemma, a public health specialist, emphasized the urgency of addressing the water price surge to prevent the populace, particularly the financially disadvantaged, from resorting to unsafe water sources. He cautioned that the consumption of contaminated water could trigger severe water-borne diseases.
In defense of the price adjustment, the Association of Table and Sachet Water Producers in Abia State cited escalating production costs as the primary factor. The association’s chairman, Peter Nwakanma, expressed the group’s willingness to reconsider the pricing should there be a reduction in production material costs. He further advised the public against consuming water not certified by NAFDAC, highlighting the health hazards associated with unverified water sources.