Environment ministry stops the use of drinking water dams for industrial purpose

In February, the use of drinking water dams for industrial and energy use will be suspended. Reduction of the authorized water volumes for drinking water supply in accordance with the quantities actually used in 2019, established by the control activity of the relevenat Basin Directorates, is foreseen in the new schedule for the use of the waters from the complex and significant dams for the month of February.

The schedule is prepared by Ministry of Environment and Water, the press office of the ministry announced on January 31.

For dams, the waters of which are used for drinking and domestic water supply and have a volume below 50% of the total, the water users, including the water supply companies, are notified to take measures to secure water supply from alternative water sources - surface and underground, for which they get permits issued from the relevant Basin Directorates. The purpose is to provide drinking and domestic water supply to the respective towns and villages.

All dams used for drinking water supply are not allowed to operate the hydropower plant in energy regime.

***

The measure come after the severe water shortages in the town of Pernik.

Pernik has been stricken with a water supply crisis for months. Water restrictions have been introduced, which led to protests, as well as to investigations by authorities. Former Minister of Environment and Water, Neno Dimov, resigned after prosecutors arrested and charged with criminal mismanagement.