NWSC confirms tap water at meter point is safe for drinking

In a reassuring announcement to the public, the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) has reaffirmed that tap water is safe for drinking directly from the meter point without the need for boiling.

This assurance comes amid concerns from consumers regarding water quality and safety.

NWSC, the national authority responsible for water supply and sanitation, has emphasised its commitment to maintaining the highest water quality standards.

According to the corporation, the water undergoes rigorous treatment at the source through a series of purification processes. This includes monitoring, sampling, and treatment along transmission mains using online dosing techniques. The water is further assessed at NWSC reservoirs before reaching customers.

“Our water conforms to the World Health Organisation (WHO) and National Drinking Water Standards. We have a fully-fledged Directorate of Water Quality, regional laboratories, mobile laboratories, and some of the best water quality technicians in the country,” NWSC stated in a recent post on X (formerly Twitter).

While NWSC ensures the safety of water up to the customer’s meter point, the organisation clarifies that it cannot guarantee quality beyond this point. This is due to potential contamination risks in internal plumbing systems and storage facilities, which are the responsibility of the property owner.

“It is safe to drink water from the tap at the meter point. Beyond that, we have no jurisdiction as per a customer’s internal plumbing,” NWSC emphasised.

This distinction is crucial because ageing pipes, poor plumbing materials, and unclean water storage tanks can introduce contaminants. The corporation strongly advises property owners to maintain their internal plumbing and clean water storage tanks at least once every six months to ensure continued water safety.

The water safety claims by NWSC are backed by independent monitoring agencies such as the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) and health experts who regularly conduct tests to confirm compliance with safety standards.

This means that for those with direct access to tap water at the meter point, there is no need to boil it before drinking. However, those relying on internal plumbing and storage tanks should take extra precautions to ensure their water remains safe.

For many Ugandans, this reassurance brings relief and confidence in the reliability of NWSC’s supply. “This is great news! I’ve always boiled my water just in case, but knowing it’s safe at the meter point gives me peace of mind,” said Sarah, a resident of Kampala.

As NWSC continues to uphold its commitment to safe and clean water, the onus is now on consumers to maintain proper water storage and plumbing practices. With clean water at the source, Uganda moves one step closer to universal access to safe drinking water.

The message is clear—if your tap is directly at the meter point, drink up! But if your water runs through storage tanks and pipes, ensure they are well-maintained to keep your supply as safe as when it leaves NWSC’s hands.