The extremely low flow of the Danube is no longer just a temporary situation, but it risks becoming a constant reality. Hydrologists warn that authorities must abandon emergency interventions and adopt long-term solutions. If the river flow continues to decrease, water supply for drinking water could take priority over other uses.

Hydrologist Dan Rădulescu told Digi24 that a further reduction in the Danube's flow could force authorities to prioritize the use of water.

"If things evolve towards further reduction in flow, it could lead to prioritization in some areas, i.e., maintaining flows as much as possible for drinking water supply and prioritizing other uses based on needs," explained the specialist.

"The Danube Commission should work in such a way as to achieve an agreement among all parties, among all countries, so that they can participate and act together in such situations. We should not be in this situation again, especially as it is a reality. We need a new governance model.

"We need to take natural storage measures to prevent the decrease in flow and adaptation measures to cope with its consequences. It is important to ensure that all parties are involved in these efforts," added Rădulescu.

Source consulted: https://www.digi24.ro/stiri/actualitate/debitul-scazut-al-dunarii-noua-normalitate-hidrologii-trag-un-semnal-de-alarma-ce-s-ar-putea-intampla-cu-alimentarea-cu-apa-3889687