Moldova Suspends Dniester and Prut Water Use for Irrigation

Moldova suspends water abstraction from the Dniester and Prut rivers for irrigation

For the duration of the state of emergency, Moldova is suspending water abstraction from the Dniester and Prut rivers for irrigation purposes. At the same time, restrictions are being introduced on the use of drinking water and surface water for watering green spaces, street cleaning and filling swimming pools.

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The decision by the National Crisis Management Commission is due to low water levels and reduced flow rates in the Dniester and Prut rivers. The situation in the two river basins will be monitored on a daily basis.

Should the hydrological situation deteriorate further, available water resources will be allocated primarily to meet the needs of the population, for sanitation, medical and social institutions, schools, emergency services and critical infrastructure.

The decision stipulates that the authorities must ensure the necessary volume of water to prepare centralised heating systems for the cold season and to maintain the flow rate required to protect aquatic ecosystems.

In the event of a shortage, water will be delivered by mobile means

Water supply operators and local authorities must update their contingency plans in the event of a further reduction in water availability.

In settlements where the centralised water supply is at risk, water may be delivered using mobile units. Priority will be given to medical and social institutions, schools, emergency services and the population of affected settlements.

To ensure water supply during periods of low water levels, five high-capacity pumps, provided by S.A. ‘Apă-Canal Chișinău’, will be kept on standby. If necessary, proven artesian wells and other reserve groundwater sources may be brought online.

Local authorities will be able to use contingency funds to purchase pumps, spare parts and fuel for the generators at pumping stations.

At the same time, the Environmental Protection Inspectorate will step up inspections to prevent illegal water abstraction, exceeding authorised volumes and the wasteful use of water resources.

The measures will come into force on 26 September 2026.

This story was translated with the assistance of artificial intelligence.The translation was also reviewed by the Logos Press editorial team.

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