TUNDURU District Commissioner Denis Masanja has called on both government institutions and local residents to take proper care of the newly installed digital water meters, emphasizing that their meticulous maintenance is crucial to ensuring reliable service delivery across the district.

Masanja stressed that safeguarding the meters is a shared responsibility, warning that misuse or neglect could undermine the government’s comprehensive efforts to improve water supply services and accountability. 

He delivered the appeal yesterday during a short handover ceremony for the new meters at the Urban Water Authority offices in Tunduru town.

The digital water meter installation project is being spearheaded by Ruvuma Urban and Rural Water Authority (RUWASA). Maua Mgala, RUWASA Manager for Tunduru District, reported that the authority has already installed 30 digital prepaid meters in government institutions. 

This initial rollout is part of a larger plan to address longstanding customer complaints regarding billing discrepancies and to improve transparency. The prepaid meters allow residents and institutions to pay for water before consumption, a system designed to eliminate disputes over monthly water bills and ensure fairness.

"These installations represent a major effort by the government to enhance water service delivery and ensure fairness and accountability in billing," Mgala stated. He confirmed that 10 additional meters are scheduled to be installed for private customers.

Mgala highlighted the positive impact of the new technology, noting that the meters have been functioning without issue since their installation. New water supply projects in Mkowela and Huria villages have already been successfully connected to the digital system.

The benefits of the new system extend beyond just accurate billing. Consumer control: the prepaid system empowers consumers to monitor and control their water usage more efficiently, preventing unexpected bills.

Utility efficiency: The technology streamlines water management, reduces water losses and improves the reliability of the supply. "The digital meters have been operating smoothly, with no reported interruptions or technical problems," Mgala confirmed, adding that the project is significantly contributing to improved access to clean water in both urban and rural areas.

Masanja underscored that the success of the technology is contingent upon community cooperation. He urged all residents and institutional staff to treat the meters with care, avoid tampering and report any issues promptly to RUWASA officials.

“This is a significant step in improving water services in our district. However, the success of this project depends on how well we, as a community, protect and use these meters responsibly,” he said.

The DC concluded by encouraging local leaders to continue supporting RUWASA by educating the public on the benefits of the digital meters. He assured residents that the government remains committed to expanding the programme to reach more households and institutions, ensuring sustainable water supply in Tunduru District.