In brief
The Vratsa Regional Administration extended the partial state of disaster in Kozloduy for up to 30 days as drinking water tests continue to show chromium levels above limits. The decision follows an earlier declaration on October 30 when tests found 90 µg/L of chromium, exceeding the 50 µg/L standard. Authorities plan inspections, a long‑term alternative supply, and have kept a temporary 15% water‑price cut.
The Vratsa Regional Administration has extended the partial state of disaster in the Danube‑side town of Kozloduy for up to 30 days, officials said Thursday, citing continued chromium contamination in the town’s central water supply.
The decision followed a meeting of the regional response team chaired by Vratsa Regional Governor Rosen Mihaylov.
Tests conducted late October revealed elevated chromium concentrations in tap water after a prolonged drought; a prior declaration was made on October 30 when levels reached approximately 90 µg per litre, doubling the permissible limit of 50 µg per litre.
The Vratsa Regional Health Inspectorate confirms that while chromium has decreased from initial levels, samples still deviate from statutory drinking‑water standards.
Local authorities have inspected pubs, restaurants and cafés without finding violations, while the municipality continues to supply bottled water to childcare facilities and through 13 distribution points.
Vratsa Water and Sewerage Company will clean shaft wells, and staff have discussed supplying additional bottled water from the State Reserve.
The water company reduced supply prices by 15% from October 1 to encourage safe consumption until standards are met, a detail reported by BTA.
In addition to extending the state of disaster, the team ordered joint inspections by the Vratsa Regional Directorate for Food Safety and the Regional Health Inspectorate.
A long‑term project to supply Kozloduy with water from an alternative source is in the planning stage.
