The ecosystem of the Nistru River suffers because of the hydropower ambitions of the Ukrainian authorities. Minister of the Environment Iuliana Cantaragiu said the Dniester Hydropower Complex operated by Ukraine impacts the most a Nistru River’s segment of 150 kilometers. The destruction of aquatic biodiversity has reduced the water’s self-cleaning capacity, which means that Moldova will have to excessively treat the water so that this is fit for consumption or irrigation, IPM reports.

Ukraine aims to increase its electricity production capacities and to extend its export possibilities through the agency of the Dniester Hydropower Complex. This seriously impacts the quality of water, leading to the disappearance of many fish species.

“The UNDP study conducted with the assistance of Sweden was completed and this shows that the Dniester Hydropower Complex impacts the most a Nistru River’s segment of 150 kilometers downstream of Naslavcea-Nahoreanîi. The hydropower plant impacts primarily the quality of water. If the quality of water changes, aquatic biodiversity also changes. Influence is exerted mostly by the temperature of water determined by the working method of the hydropower plant, by the water discharge. There are large water discharge fluctuations when the turbines work,” Iuliana Cantaragiu stated in the talk show “Emphasis on Today on TVR Moldova channel.

According to the minister, the river loses the capacity to clean itself and the water in the future will need to be treated excessively, while the river will become mudded.

“The loss of aquatic ecosystems means the water self-cleaning processes are reduced. This means the localities situated on the bank of the river, if they do not have water treatment stations or if these stations do not function normally, further contribute to the pollution of water. The use of water for different purposes, such as consumption and irrigation, is conditional on special treatment. This has an economic impact on bills,” stated Iuliana Cantaragiu.

Recently, Ukraine put into operation the fourth turbine of the six planned as part of the Dniester Hydropower Complex. According to official data, the Nistru River is the main source of water for the residents of Chisinau, Bălți, Soroca, partially Rezina and for the Râbnița Metallurgical Plant.