The Răut River faces severe pollution; locals and authorities call for urgent action
The Răut River is facing a severe pollution crisis, with conditions deteriorating daily. Significant amounts of waste have piled up in the riverbed, severely impacting water quality. Experts indicated that the river contains harmful bacteria, rendering it unsafe for both drinking and irrigation. Local residents and authorities are urgently calling for prompt action from responsible institutions to halt the ongoing degradation of the river.
Near Orheiul Vechi, the Răut River seems as peaceful as ever. But an environmental crisis is lurking - the water is full of bacteria and toxic substances. Experts warn - the water is no longer suitable for consumption and irrigation.
"For about a month, since September 15, we have noticed a strong smell. Now we don't use it at all, the animals don't even drink it".
"Before, we used to wash the wheat, we washed it in Răut, and we also washed the carpets".
"Before, we used the water for washing, for the animals. Now, it is impossible to use the water".
"I actually live near Răut and dirty water comes. We also have animals and I give them water from the well".
Local authorities in the areas where the river passes say that together with the residents they are trying to clean the riverbed, but the measures taken are not enough.
"Considering the low rainfall in the summer, little water and this is still acting on the riverbed. We are taking some measures, we are collecting from around the river, we are taking measures", said the mayor of Ivancea commune, Alexei Savițchi.
The Environmental Protection Inspectorate has taken action and will take the necessary measures under legal powers.
"If chemical indicators are detected or found to exceed acceptable limits, the environmental damage will be assessed, and the Prosecutor's Office will initiate a criminal case to hold offenders accountable under the Criminal Code," stated the head of the Environmental Protection Inspectorate, Ion Bulmaga.
Recent data presented by the Natural Heritage and Biodiversity Directorate of the "Orheiul Vechi" Cultural-Natural Reserve, following laboratory analyses, indicate that the middle sector of the Răut River is polluted with fecal matter, diesel fuel, and ammonia. Representatives of the Directorate have requested the inclusion of the Trebujeni-Morovaia sector in the water monitoring program for 2026 as an urgent measure to halt the degradation of the ecosystem.
