Consumers Criticize Sachet Water Producers, Retailers As Prices surge In Abia

Consumers Criticize Sachet Water Producers, Retailers As Prices surge In Abia

Residents of Umuahia and other parts of Abia State are expressing dismay over the significant hike in the cost of sachet water, commonly referred to as pure water…….READ ALSO Flour And Bread Prices Increase, Sparking Concern Among Stakeholders And Consumers

Investigations reveal that the price of sachet water has surged to N50 per sachet.

Just two weeks ago, the same product was available at 2 sachets for N50, indicating a 100% increase in retail price by the sellers.

Furthermore, a bag containing 20 sachets is now being sold for between N400 and N450, compared to the previous price of N300 two weeks ago.

Reports indicate that the price surge commenced following a recent two-day strike by members of the Table and Sachet Water Producers Association in Abia State.

Following the strike, the association members decided to raise the price to N350 per bag from the initial N250, with retail shops now selling to consumers at N50 per sachet.

Some residents have resorted to drinking directly from boreholes and other public sources due to the inflated prices.

However, while acknowledging the health risks associated with consuming water from alternative sources, residents are urging both producers and the Abia State government to address the issue promptly.

Dr. Terry Omemma, a public health expert, emphasized the importance of reducing the price of drinking water to ensure accessibility for low-income consumers and cautioned against the potential outbreak of water-borne diseases from consuming unclean water.

In defense of the price increase, members of the Association of Table and Sachet Water Producers in Abia State attributed their decision to the escalating cost of production materials.

Chairman Peter Nwakanma stated that they would consider reducing the price once the cost of production materials decreases in the market.