Inflow to Novodnistrovsk reservoir dropped to alarming level

The hydrological situation on the Dniester is worsening after the inflow into the Novodnistrovsk reservoir dropped on Sunday to only 23 cubic meters per second, the lowest level recorded for this period.

According to Minister of Environment Gheorghe Hajder, in the first ten days of August the average daily flow was approximately 38 m³/s. At the same time, water discharges toward the Republic of Moldova remain at around 75 m³/s, which is causing the reservoir level to decrease continuously.

The Minister of Environment warns that the reduced flows are a serious signal both for the Dniester ecosystem and for the river’s capacity to maintain its natural balance and ensure water supply for the population.

“It is an extremely serious signal,” said Gheorghe Hajder, emphasizing the need for constant monitoring of the situation and for measures to ensure the responsible use of water resources.

The Ministry of Environment states that it is maintaining contact with the Ukrainian authorities and is continuously analyzing hydrological data and operational information. The institution says it is in touch with all responsible authorities and will inform the public about the evolution of the situation and any necessary measures.

In the context of the water deficit, the authorities also recommend reducing losses, adapting intake infrastructure, avoiding unjustified consumption, and using available resources responsibly.

The hydrological state of alert was introduced following a significant reduction in water resources in the Dniester basin. On 27 July, the water level in the Nistrean storage reservoir was 113.24 meters, compared with the normal level of 121 meters. At the same time, there is a risk that the discharge from Novodnistrovsk will drop below the safety threshold of 100 m³ per second, which could affect the operation of intake stations and water supply.

The authorities will assess alternative supply sources, inventory intake points on the Dniester and its tributaries, and prepare backup water wells. At the same time, operators will update continuity plans, including by reducing network losses, while the Ministry of Environment will continuously monitor the hydrological situation. To coordinate these measures, the Government has approved the immediate entry into force of provisions allowing the activation of the National Crisis Management Commission, headed by the Prime Minister. The Commission will ensure continuous assessment of the situation, coordination of the institutional response, and the prompt adoption of necessary decisions.