Management of sewerage system: case study in Tema

Many sanitation systems in most developing countries have deteriorated resulting in a lower level of service and consequent deterioration of environmental conditions. The sewerage system in the Tema Municipality is not different from other developing countries; three pumping stations and the treatment plant have been shut down hence raw sewage flows through a by-pass into the sea without treatment, creating an environmental hazard. This study examined the problems associated with the management of the sewerage system in Tema Municipality through field visits, administering questionnaires and interviews with key stakeholders. The study revealed that Tema Metropolitan Assembly (T.M.A) lacks key personnel; equipment, logistics and funds to manage the system. 33% of the residents using the sewer lines are not billed; the tariffs paid by the industries are low. The revenue does not march Operation and Maintenance cost and current electrical energy cost make up 64% of the Operation and Maintenance cost.