KVDA Assures Residents of Safety Amidst Fears of Turkwel Dam Overflow

By Emmanuel Oyasi,

Kerio Valley Development Authority (KVDA) Managing Director Sammy Naporos, accompanied by West Pokot sub county Deputy County Commissioner Wycliffe Munanda, conducted an inspection of the Turkwel Dam’s water levels on Sunday 5th May, assuring the locals that the current water level is low, alleviating concerns about spilling.

Speaking after conducting the inspection, Mr. Naporos said that the water levels in the dam are at 1135 meters above sea level, leaving 15 meters before the dam spills or overflows.

“We have conducted our inspection at the dam and we have confirmed that the water levels are not at an alarming state,” said Mr. Naporos.

However, Mr. Naporos emphasized on the need of residents living in lowland areas prone to flooding to take caution and avoid crossing swollen rivers as this may lead to the loss of life.

“No one should cross or drive in swollen rivers, which might cause loss of life and property,” he cautioned.

In response to the heightened risk posed by strong waves, Naporos suspended fishing activities in Turkwel dam during evening and night hours, instructing the beach management unit to make sure that these instructions are adhered to.

“At this particular time we are experiencing strong waves especially in the evenings and at night. So we have instructed the beach management unit to stop fishing at such times in order to avoid the loss of life,” he added

His statement was echoed by the Deputy County Commissioner Wycliffe Munanda who assured the enforcement of laws against fishing in the evening hours, pledging police presence at the dam to ensure the safety of residents.

“We have the police officers who are making patrols at our dams in order to make sure those who are fishing in this dam are following the instructions given,” said Mr. Munanda.

The locals residing near Turkwel dam led by John Longiroi, a fisherman, expressed difficulties faced due to heavy waves, saying that some locals have moved from the area in fear of their lives,

“We are having hard times going on with our activities especially evening hours due to strong winds. Some people have even moved to other areas fearing for their lives,” said Longiroi.