Republic of Moldova | Record decline in the Dniester River’s flow increases pressure on water resources

The inflow into the Novodnestrovsk Reservoir has fallen to 14 cubic meters per second, reaching a new historic low.

Minister of Environment Gheorghe Hajder warns that the decline is continuing and that its effects are already being felt downstream along the Dniester River.

Inflow has declined significantly in recent days

According to data presented by the minister, over the past five days, the average daily inflow into the reservoir stood at just 19 cubic meters per second, compared with 38 cubic meters per second at the beginning of the month. The recorded figures were 15 cubic meters per second on Monday, 29 on Tuesday, 19 on Wednesday, 18 on Thursday, and just 14 cubic meters per second on Friday.

Downstream flows reduced

The decline in water inflow is already affecting downstream flows. Until August 20, releases from the Dubasari Reservoir were maintained at approximately 77–78 cubic meters per second. On Thursday, the flow was reduced to 72 cubic meters per second, while authorities anticipate a further decrease to 65 cubic meters per second.

Growing pressure on the ecosystem

Gheorghe Hajder emphasized that the current situation is placing increasing pressure on the Dniester River ecosystem, as well as on water supply and the management of water resources.

Monitoring and cooperation with Ukraine

The Ministry of Environment is continuously monitoring the hydrological situation and maintaining consultations with the relevant institutions, including the Ukrainian authorities. A new extraordinary Moldovan-Ukrainian meeting is scheduled for the end of the month, during which the evolution of hydrological indicators and possible measures will be assessed.

Call for responsible water use

Authorities are calling on consumers, businesses, and local public administrations to monitor water intake stations, reduce losses across water networks, and use water responsibly. They are also urged to eliminate unnecessary consumption amid the worsening water shortage.