FOR THE RECORD: Liberia Shuts Down Bottled Water Companies

Sachet water is now going to be harder to find in Liberia's capital. AFP

The authorities in Liberia have closed down more than 55 companies selling drinking water in bottles and plastic sachets.

BBC News report continues:

The public health authority said the water was not fit for human consumption.

It said some of the companies claimed to be producing mineral water when it was nothing of the sort.

Liberia's main water treatment plant was badly damaged during the country's civil wars.

It serves about a fifth of the population of the capital, Monrovia, leaving many residents dependent on bottled water.

Liberia: 55 Water Companies Shut Down

The News reports that Government of Liberia through the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) has shut down 55 mineral water companies in Monrovia and its environs.

Addressing a news conference Monday in Congo Town, NPHIL Director General Tolbert Nyenswah said the 55 companies are said to be producing sub-standard or contaminated water products for public consumption.

He told newsmen that the closing down of the water companies followed a 30-day joint inspection exercise of water producing companies in Montserrado County by inter-governmental Ministries and agencies.

Mr. Nyenswah said during the month-long exercise, 125 water producing companies were inspected of which 55 were found to be producing unfit water for human consumption.

The NPHIL boss said the affected water companies will remain closed pending the improvement of their services and environment.

Mr. Nyenswah further said equipment of the affected companies will be confiscated to ensure that they do not produce water behind the scene.

He said his institute and collaborating entities are prepared to ensure that only quality water is sold on the Liberian market for consumption.

At the same time, Mr. Nyenswah said plans are ongoing to also inspect food handling institutions including restaurants, hotels, among others.

This, he said, is also intended to ensure that food handling entities are providing quality services.

Nyenswah said restaurants and hotels that will not meet NPHIL standard will also be shut down.