Czech Prime Minister Babiš announces 4 billion CZK drought relief plan

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš has detailed a plan to allocate four billion CZK from the Ministry of Agriculture's budget next year to combat drought. The funds are intended for connecting water networks, constructing small reservoirs and ponds, and implementing irrigation measures. The plan also includes preparations for major waterworks, such as land acquisitions and documentation for reservoirs in Nové Heřminy, Kryry, and Vlachovice.

To address the ongoing water crisis, the government is reinstating the National Coalition Against Drought. While Babiš emphasizes the urgency of these measures, political opposition remains divided. MP Miroslav Ševčík has criticized the focus on drought, suggesting the situation is being treated with "hysteria" and arguing that the climate crisis has effectively ended due to the funding of ineffective programs.

Separately, Babiš faced scrutiny following a hike to Lysá Hora, where he apologized for picking flowers in a protected area, stating it was a personal tribute to a deceased acquaintance. He expressed readiness to pay any resulting fines.