In temporarily occupied Mariupol, the Staro krymske reservoir has almost completely dried up. In addition to a water shortage, there is a threat of losing fish and aquatic ecosystems. This is reported by 'Glavkom' referencing the Mariupol City Council.
«Most of the reservoir has simply «dried up». There is very little water left. Even the occupiers admit that, in addition to a water shortage, the city is facing a loss of fish and aquatic ecosystems, as well as an increased risk of infectious outbreaks,» the message says.
The city council added that the approximate flow of the reservoir is 35,000 cubic meters per day. Meanwhile, the city needs to supply 150,000 cubic meters, and the accelerated drying may lead to Mariupol being completely without water.
Loss of the backup water source
Previously, Mariupol drew water from two sources - the Seversky Donets Canal and the backup Staro krymske reservoir. During the Russian invasion, the Seversky Donets Canal was damaged, so the city switched to using only the backup water source.
It was planned that the water supply issue would be resolved by implementing an investment project to modernize the water supply and drainage system. This project envisioned the construction of a filtration station that would provide Mariupol with high-quality drinking water.
In the event of a suspension of water supply, Mariupol could become a waterless city due to the drying of the backup reservoir, leading to serious problems for residents and the ecosystem. The situation requires urgent measures to address the water supply issue and conserve water resources.