A resident in the Bongo District of the Upper East Region, Rhodlyn Sumbowini, is worried about the effects of the high level of fluoride in water deposits in Bongo. According to Miss Sumbowini, the water in the Bongo area “has been causing significant damage to the teeth of the people, leading to a loss of confidence and courage when speaking.”
This was contained in a letter written to the Upper East Regional Minister and copied to this website, drawing his attention to the situation.
“Many residents, especially children, are experiencing discoloration and weakening of their teeth due to prolonged exposure to this water. This not only affects their physical health but also has a significant impact on their self-esteem and confidence. I urge you to take immediate action to address this issue and ensure that the water supply in our area is safe for consumption. This may involve implementing water treatment measures to reduce fluoride levels or providing alternative sources of clean water for the residents. Furthermore, I believe that education and awareness programs should be initiated to inform the community about the potential dangers of consuming water with high fluoride levels and how they can protect their dental health,” portions of the statement read.
Hydrologist and Assistant Director at the Community Water and Sanitation in the Upper East Region, Bright Obeng, speaking to Mark Smith on A1 Radio’s Day Break Upper East Show, explained that the situation has long been known by officials.
“The rocks in Bongo are technically called granitoids. They have high amounts of fluoride. The composition of the rock is such that there is a high level of fluoride at certain places,” he said.
Mr. Obeng said there are currently no known homegrown solutions for reducing the fluoride levels in the water. He said to deal with the issues, there has to be a processing plant, a capital intensive solution.
The hydrologist explained that while there has been and continues to be ongoing research into addressing the situation, nothing concrete has been arrived at.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com | 101.1MHZ | Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith | Bolgatanga
