The Kashechewan First Nation, located in northern Ontario, is facing a critical situation with its water supply and wastewater systems, leading to a potential evacuation of its entire community.
The remote community, situated on the western shore of James Bay, is experiencing a significant drop in water levels, which has forced an automatic shutdown to prevent further damage to the already fragile system. Pump failures in the sewage lift stations, caused by an outdated system over 30 years old, have exacerbated the crisis.
As a result, sewage is seeping into homes and contaminating the fresh water supply, posing urgent public health and safety concerns. In response to the crisis, the community is currently relying on the delivery of potable water for residents.
Executive director Tyson Wesley has highlighted the need for evacuation, initially focusing on vulnerable individuals with medical conditions at risk of infection. However, the community now plans to relocate approximately 2,200 residents to ensure their safety and well-being.
Despite efforts to address the situation, Wesley expressed frustration with what he perceives as inadequate government response. The community is collaborating with various agencies, including Indigenous Services Canada and Emergency Management Ontario, and has requested potential assistance from the military.
In addition to the water crisis, Kashechewan is grappling with an influenza outbreak, further intensifying the challenges faced by residents. Wesley emphasized the emotional toll on community members, who are unable to carry out basic tasks like bathing, washing clothes, or flushing toilets due to the water issues.
This current crisis echoes past challenges faced by Kashechewan, including a notorious E. coli contamination incident in 2005 and a previous evacuation in December 2024 due to water treatment plant issues.