By Vaye Lepolu & Jessica Cox
Monrovia, Liberia – The Liberia Water & Sewer Corporation (LWSC) has launched a large-scale demolition campaign targeting illegal structures built over critical water and sewer pipelines. The initiative aims to restore access to essential infrastructure and improve the city’s deteriorating water and sewer systems.
For years, unauthorized construction on public utility lines has hindered maintenance efforts, leading to frequent sewage blockages and water supply disruptions. Despite a 1983 presidential proclamation enforcing a 15-foot no-construction zone around water and sewer lines, violations have persisted, with buildings erected directly on top of pipelines in areas like Center Street, Benson Street, and Water Street.
Francis Borbor, Managing Director of LWSC, emphasized the severity of the issue. *“No matter how many times we send trucks to clear the system, it will not work as long as people continue to build on top of these sewer and water lines,”* he stated. *“These illegal structures are the root cause of the problems we face today.”*
The Demolition Campaign
The demolition process began last week, withseveral major obstructions already removed in key locations. Additional structures in Jallah Town, Broad Street, and Ashmun Street have been marked for demolition. Affected residents and business owners have been given notices to vacate their properties and remove belongings before the demolitions proceed.
Authorities have made it clear that no exceptions will be made, even for influential individuals. “We are past the point of allowing certain individuals to avoid consequences while others suffer,” an LWSC official stated. “This action is necessary to ensure equitable access to public utilities for all citizens.”*
Legal Action and Accountability
Beyond the demolition campaign, the government is considering legal action against individuals who constructed buildings on public infrastructure. Officials argue that these individuals should compensate the government for damages caused by their illegal constructions, rather than seeking reimbursement for their losses. This approach aims to set a precedent and deter future encroachments on public utility spaces.
“We cannot allow people to profit from illegal activities while the rest of the city suffers,”* Borbor added. “Holding violators accountable is essential to preventing this problem from recurring.”
A Commitment to Rehabilitation
The demolition campaign is part of a broader effort by the government to rehabilitate Monrovia’s water and sewer systems. By removing illegal structures, the LWSC aims to restore access to pipelines, enabling maintenance teams to address blockages and improve service delivery. The campaign is expected to continue over the coming weeks, with a focus on high-priority areas.
As the demolition campaign progresses, authorities are urging residents to respect infrastructure regulations and avoid building on public utility lines. *“We understand that this process may cause inconvenience, but it is necessary for the greater good,”* Borbor said. *“We appeal to all citizens to comply with the law and help us build a city where everyone has access to clean water and proper sanitation.”
