Higher Administrative Court overturns drinking water rationing in Strausberg!

Higher Administrative Court overturns drinking water rationing in Strausberg!

The decision of the Berlin-Brandenburg Higher Administrative Court (OVG) on the drinking water supply in the area of ​​the Strausberg-Erkner water association has caused a stir. How rbb24 reported that the judges have classified the established regulations for limiting the withdrawal of drinking water as partly illegal. This decision follows an application for regulatory review by three property owners who did not agree with the previous regulations.

Essentially, the OVG criticized above all the vagueness of the water supply statute, which lacks clear standards for the quantities of drinking water granted. The ruling calls on those responsible to create more precise regulations in order to do justice to the great importance of drinking water supply. Courts agree that the water board's authorization to restrict consumption in the event of an impending water shortage is not objectionable. However, these measures, including irrigation bans or temporary restrictions on use, must be based on specific dangers.

Water supply background

As part of the new regulations, the water association planned to limit daily water withdrawal to a maximum of 105 liters per capita. This measure was originally supposed to come into force in 2023, but was postponed because water consumption in the area was better than expected, even despite the commissioning of the Tesla Gigafactory, as the Märkische Allgemeine leads. Critics within the water association also expressed skepticism about the need for such quotas.

The current challenges of water supply in Germany are diverse. Overall, the connection rate to the public water supply is around 99 percent, but regional differences and potential water shortages should not be underestimated. According to the Federal Agency for Civic Education, per capita consumption in Germany is still high at around 123 liters per day, after a decline of around 20 percent since 1991.

The role of water resources

The main source of drinking water supply in Germany is groundwater and spring water, which makes up around 70 percent of raw water. In view of the challenges posed by climate change, nutrient surpluses and chemical contamination, a rethinking of water supply is essential. It is estimated that around 35 percent of the groundwater bodies in Germany are in poor chemical condition. This calls for new strategies and research approaches to sustainably protect and preserve water resources.

The OVG's decision makes it clear that water supply is not just a local issue, but also raises larger societal questions. In view of the growing challenges, it is essential to make the water supply sustainable. Everyone involved is required to have a good hand and sustainably cover the needs.