Residents of Slobozia avoid drinking tap water, although authorities say that analyses confirm that it is safe to drink

Many residents of Slobozia continue to avoid drinking tap water, although analyses reported by the Public Health Directorate indicate that it is safe to drink. Distrust grew after the water repeatedly had a brown, rust-like color for approximately one and a half months, as well as amid problems at the wastewater treatment plant.

Ialomița County Prefect Mihai Andrei Tănăsescu said he understands the locals’ choice, even though official data show that the water can be consumed. The water operator maintains that the treatment facility keeps the indicators within legal limits, but the levels are close to the maximum permitted thresholds.

The state of alert was extended by 30 days to maintain water supplies to homes, schools and Ialomița County Hospital until technical solutions are identified. Meanwhile, failures at the wastewater treatment plant led to the discharge of some untreated wastewater into the Ialomița River. The operator was fined 200,000 lei and lost its permit.

The plant dates back to the 1970s. Modernization could cost approximately 800,000 euros for the mechanical component and between 5.6 and 5.7 million lei for the biological treatment stage, but these amounts are estimates, not approved funds.