site.btaMinister Says "All Possible Measures" Were Taken to Address Pleven Water Crisis, Asks Residents "to Be Patient"

The measures taken by the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works to address the water crisis in Pleven are the most viable options at this stage, both technically and legally—including adherence to public procurement deadlines—and are adequate under the current circumstances, Environment and Water Minister Manol Genov said during a meeting of the Regional Crisis Committee on an ongoing water shortage.

“These solutions aren’t quick, and I understand the frustration—but people need to be patient,” the Minister said. “The problem has been building up for years and won’t be solved overnight.” He also noted that the region has faced drought conditions for four consecutive years, with expectations that next year will be similar.

“The situation in Pleven is extremely serious, and I fully sympathize with residents. In moments like this, many so-called experts emerge with conflicting advice, which only complicates decision-making. Just mentioning the Cherni Osam reservoir immediately sparked opposition,” Genov added.

He explained that Pleven’s water system is highly complex, relying on multiple sources—including wells, the Cherni Osam pipeline, and drainage systems—all of which must work together to ensure stability.

“I urge all residents of Pleven to remain patient. I know the situation is incredibly difficult,” the minister said.

Also speaking at the meeting, Lozko Lozev, CEO of the Bulgarian Water and Sewerage Holding, noted that while the overall water balance in Pleven is currently positive—by about 50–60 liters per second— supply remains too inconsistent to end the current water rationing.