After the good efforts of the citizens and the rains of the last few weeks, the Oslo municipality can now cancel all water saving measures, they write in a press release. But if we have little rainfall, there is a risk that they will be reintroduced.
Updated less than 10 minutes ago
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Throughout 2022, Oslo’s sources of drinking water were so below normal water levels that the municipality was forced to introduce several water-saving measures.
Among other things, the flow of water to Akerselva was reduced and water was imported from neighboring municipalities. The municipality has also reduced water consumption by reducing the washing of roads, cars and equipment. In addition, the watering of flowers and trees was limited and the fountains dried out.
After Oslo municipality texted all residents to save water, water consumption has historically been low. In July and August, Oslo residents used 12.5% less water than in the same period last year.
But now the municipality is canceling the measures, they wrote in a press release on Tuesday.
– I am impressed with the commitment of the people of Oslo for several months. This situation has taught us that we cannot take natural resources for granted. We are now building a new water supply in Oslo to give the city safe access to safe drinking water, says city council leader Raymond Johansen.
Oslo has a vulnerable water supply, as Maridalsvannet accounts for 90 percent of the supply to the city’s residents. The low rainfall since last fall and the restoration of a large dam have resulted in less water in Oslo’s reservoirs than normal.
– I would like to say a big thank you to the people of Oslo and the business community of the city. This shows us that joint efforts produce results. I hope everyone continues to use less water even if we now cancel the water saving measures. Purified drinking water is a precious resource that we must not waste, says city councilor for the environment and transport, Sirin Stav.
At the same time, there is still a long way to go before full magazines.
– With normal rainfall in the fall and winter, we will get there. If we have little rainfall, there is a risk that we will have to introduce savings measures again. There are therefore good reasons to continue saving water. If you use less hot water, you will notice this on your electricity bill. There are good habits that have been established and we should stick to them, says Sigurd Grande, director of the Agency’s Department for Water and Sewerage.
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