Munich and South Tyrol impose water‑saving bans as drought curtails consumption

The city of Munich issued a general order on 14 July restricting water use amid a drought. Private pools may not be filled, lawn‑spraying and car‑washing at home are prohibited, and violations can attract fines up to €50,000. City utilities report daily consumption has fallen to below 320 million litres, down from about 400 million litres during the late‑June heat wave. The measures also apply to seven neighbouring municipalities that receive Munich water supplies.

In Italy’s South Tyrol region, Governor Arno Kompatscher signed a decree on 13 July after the water‑stress committee warned of low river‑flow levels in the Etsch. The decree bans street cleaning with water, prohibits non‑commercial vehicle washing, and limits irrigation of green areas to every three days between 06:00‑19:00. Similar restrictions affect agricultural irrigation and require large‑garden owners to reduce use. Officials warn that the reduced flow could allow saltwater to intrude into the Etsch’s drinking‑water sources. Enforcement will involve local authorities and water‑utility operators, with penalties for non‑compliance.