site.btaEnvironment Minister Says Alternative Solutions Needed to Tackle Water Shortages, Drinking Water Quality Issues

Environment and Water Minister Manol Genov Thursday called for seeking alternative solutions to water shortages and drinking water quality issues. Interviewed by the Bulgarian National Television, he recalled that water and sewerage companies are responsible for monitoring water resources, a task also carried out by the state authorities.

"In Bulgaria, 98–99% of populated areas have water supply. I know of only two or three without a water supply network. The real issue, however, is the condition of the infrastructure and the extent of water losses," Genov commented.

He noted that efforts are being made under Operational Programme Environment to support the Regional Development Ministry in building new water supply networks.

The reservoirs used for electricity production are about 90% full. In contrast, irrigation facilities are about 40% full, he added.