Moldovan PM says absolute priority drinking water for people

The absolute priority of the authorities, in the context of the declaration of a state of alert in the hydrological sector, is to supply drinking water for citizens. At the same time, water suppliers must update their continuity plans and local authorities must check wells, reservoirs and all backup sources. Prime Minister Vasile Tofan has ordered these measures after a meeting of the National Crisis Management Commission (CNMC). The event was held following an extraordinary government meeting, at which a state of alert was declared in the hydrological sector in connection with the decrease in the water level of the Dniester River.

The PM said that responsible institutions would ensure continuous monitoring of the water level in the Dniester River and of its quality.

"We do not need panic, but we must prepare. We have decided on continuous monitoring of the water level, flow and quality. Unfortunately, there has been very little rain in the Carpathians. The Dniester is at a minimum level in its history, and the Novodnestrovsk and Dubasari reservoirs are also at minimum levels. We need to acknowledge this reality. The absolute priority is drinking water for people. Water operators must immediately update their continuity plans. Local authorities must check wells, reservoirs and all backup sources," said Vasile Tofan at a news conference.

The official stressed that it is necessary for the authorities to know in advance what the alternative solutions are and how quickly they can be activated.

Vasile Tofan ordered that any problem with water intake or distribution be reported immediately, especially at the Chisinau intake station.

"In particular, we must pay attention to the Chisinau intake station, built in the 1960s. If the Dniester level falls below the level of the intake station, it will not be able to draw water. And here I also appeal to Chisinau City Hall, so that we have a constructive relationship, since we must put aside all political divisions, because people will not care who is arguing with whom; people will care that they do not have water in the tap. I ask Chisinau City Hall to show responsibility and I promise the same from our side," the prime minister said.

The PM specified that, if the situation worsens, non-essential water consumption would be limited first, including certain irrigation activities, some industrial processes surface washing and secondary uses.

The government today convened at an extraordinary meeting and established a state of alert in the hydrological sector for a period of 30 days, given the decrease in the water level of the Dniester River. The authorities assure that the decision is necessary, in order to allow targeted interventions and actions, if needed.