The Kibi Water Treatment Plant in the Eastern Region has been non-operational since August 2026. This shutdown is a result of significantly worsened raw water quality from the Birim River, which supplies the plant. According to the Member of Parliament for Abuakwa South, Dr. Kingsley Agyemang, illegal mining activities have drastically increased the river's turbidity to an average of 50,000 Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTU). This high level of turbidity makes it extremely difficult for the treatment plant to process the water into a potable supply, leading to a prolonged disruption for dependent communities. The MP stated that the plant has experienced intermittent shutdowns over the past decade due to similar issues, but the current closure is unusually extended. Dr. Agyemang plans to tour illegal mining sites to raise public awareness about the environmental damage and its impact on water security. He called for stronger measures to stop illegal mining along the Birim River to protect the water source and ensure a reliable supply for the constituency.