A critical shortage of water has hit parts of Kabwe Town in Central Province, forcing residents to walk long distances in search of the commodity while others depend on rainwater.

The water crisis has persisted for almost a week, with Highridge residents last receiving water on Thursday.

The most affected areas include Highridge, Nkrumah Extension, Mpima, Pollen, Katondo, Kamuchanga, Natuseko Site and Service and Mukuyu compounds.

According to notices issued by Lukanga Water Supply and Sanitation Company on March 7 and March 9, the utility is facing challenges in maintaining optimal water levels in storage facilities due to unstable power supply.

“As a result, the company is unable to pump and store sufficient water, which has led to reduced hours of water supply, and in some instances some areas may not receive water supply,” read part of the notice.

Lukanga Water Supply and Sanitation Company has assured customers that supply will resume once the fault is rectified.