The Dar es Salaam Water Supply and Sanitation Authority (DAWASA) has intensified its crackdown on illegal water connections after uncovering unauthorised water use for vegetable farming in Kunduchi, Kinondoni District.
The operation, conducted in Majizzo Street, Kunduchi Ward, found an illegal connection being used to irrigate vegetable gardens, causing the authority losses estimated at more than TSh50 million.
The latest enforcement action is part of DAWASA’s efforts to curb water losses, protect its infrastructure and ensure that customers have reliable access to water services.
DAWASA Tegeta Manager, Engineer Edson Robert, said the operation followed information provided by members of the public about suspected illegal water use.
“This operation was conducted after receiving information from responsible citizens about illegal water use. I urge business owners to visit our offices and follow the required procedures rather than resorting to unauthorised connections,” Eng. Edson said.
He warned that illegal connections undermine the water supply system and can affect other residents who depend on the network for essential services.
The manager said DAWASA would continue taking action against people found violating regulations governing access to and use of water services.
The authority has also urged residents and businesses seeking water connections to follow the prescribed procedures and obtain services through legitimate channels.
Jumbe Said, a member of Shina No. 5 in Majizzo Street, commended DAWASA for involving residents in efforts to combat water losses and called for the operations to continue.
“I commend DAWASA for this operation. We ask for strict action against those responsible so that it serves as a lesson to others,” Said said.
He urged residents to continue reporting suspected illegal connections, saying communities are ultimately affected when vandalism and unauthorised connections disrupt water infrastructure.
The crackdown underscores DAWASA’s growing focus on reducing non-revenue water and protecting infrastructure as it works to improve the reliability and sustainability of water services across Dar es Salaam.
The authority has appealed to the public to cooperate with enforcement teams and report suspected illegal connections to enable timely intervention.
