More than 400 residents of Weah Village in Maryland County District #1 have appealed to government, and humanitarian partners for urgent help to access safe drinking water.
They warned of growing health risks if the situation is not addressed.
For years, residents say, they have depended on a nearby creek for drinking, cooking, bathing, and washing.
Locals now fear the water source has been contaminated.
Community members said, the creek runs close to a major road where accidents have occurred in recent past.
They believe run-off from vehicle fluids, debris, and waste at accident scenes have flowed into the water, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases.
“We have no other choice. This is the only water we drink and cook with. But every time it rains, we see oil, and dirt washed into the creek. We are afraid for our children,” one resident said.
Women and children, who fetch water daily said, they have noticed changes in the color, and smell of the water, especially during heavy downpour.
Some of the residents have called on the district Representative, P. Mike Jurry, and humanitarian organizations, to drill a hand pump, or construct a protected well in the village.
They say, a safe water source would reduce illness, and the long distances women and children currently walk to fetch water.
In response, Rep. Jurry said, the issue had not previously been brought to his attention.
He meanwhile, promised to dispatch a team of engineers from his office to the Weah Village to assess the situation, and recommend the appropriate intervention.
Health workers in the district warned that relying on unprotected water sources puts rural communities at high risk, especially during the rainy season when contamination spreads quickly.
