Environmental initiatives launched in Hungary to protect water bodies

The Balaton Water Guard Association has called for a social consensus to remove hazardous poles left in the sediment of Lake Balaton. Csaba Rák, coordinator of the “Balaton 0 poles” initiative, noted that many poles, primarily used by fishermen, have become decayed or broken, posing serious risks to swimmers, children, and paddleboarders. Low water levels currently provide a unique opportunity to identify and remove these hidden obstacles.

In a separate environmental effort, the North Hungarian Water Management Directorate (ÉMVIZIG) has completed the removal of over 2,000 tons of water primrose from the Bodrog River. The invasive plant had formed continuous mats near Sárospatak, restricting light and oxygen to the water and threatening aquatic life. The operation involved mechanical and manual collection to protect the river's water quality and biodiversity.