The Government promises to provide drinking water to all localities in which wells, lakes and ponds have dried out. Prime Minister Vasile Tarlev on Wednesday, August 1, stressed the necessity to deliver drinking water to highly populated areas, as well as to all higher education institutions in which admissions are taking place. The initiative to ensure potable water free of charge was launched by the prime minister two weeks ago, but authorities have not undertaken any measures so far. Vasile Tarlev requested the Ministry of Local Public Administration, the Department for Emergency Situations, and the local public authorities to act urgently. The prime minister also requested that the working programmes for employees be shortened if the canicular period continues, as required by the international employment norms. Previously, the Chisinau authorities stated that during the canicular period, the number of specialised Emergency Service teams was increased and in some health centres, several first aid offices were opened to offer assistance to those affected by heatstroke. The municipal centre for preventive medicine intensified its surveillance activity with regards to public nutrition, drinking water control, while the General Department for Public Transportation and Communication intensified the cleaning process of the municipal streets between 11.00-17.00.