On Sunday, July 12, the authorities responsible for monitoring the situation on the Bóbr River published further information on water quality and the measures being taken. The data provided shows that the situation remains stable; however, the restrictions currently in force will not yet be lifted.

No new cases of dead fish recorded

According to the statement, field monitoring carried out on July 12 detected no new cases of dead fish. At the same time, regular water quality inspections and observation of the entire section covered by the restrictions are continuing.

Automatic measuring probes located at the Rakowice weir and in the Pilchowice II area continue to operate. The devices measure, among other things, water temperature and oxygenation around the clock.

Microbiological tests indicate a stable situation

According to the authorities, the results of microbiological tests show that the microbiological quality of the water remains stable. The parameters comply with or are close to the requirements applicable to water used for bathing.

At the same time, it was emphasized that monitoring will continue. Further water samples will be collected on July 13, in line with the recommendation of the Chief Inspectorate of Environmental Protection. The results of these analyses are intended to provide the basis for further assessment of the situation.

Tap water remains safe

The authorities are also reassuring residents who use the water supply network. The water delivered to consumers is safe and fit for consumption.

As explained, Przedsiębiorstwo Wodociągów i Kanalizacji Dolina Bobru uses only deep-water intakes, so the situation on the river does not affect the quality of the water supplied to residents.

Ban on using the Bóbr River remains in force

Despite the improving test results, Regulation No. 18 of the Lower Silesian Voivode concerning the ban on using the waters of the Bóbr River, from the crest of the Pilchowice Dam to the Rakowice reservoir, remains in force.

The ban covers:

  • entering the water and bathing,
  • watering animals,
  • recreational and commercial fishing,
  • using the water for commercial purposes,
  • using watercraft.

As emphasized in the statement, the decision to lift the ban will be made only when the relevant authorities are completely certain that there is no threat to people's health and safety.

Different test results at successive locations

The Provincial Sanitary and Epidemiological Station in Wrocław also provided detailed information about tests conducted at various locations.

At the water sampling point in Nielestno, a sample collected on July 7 showed no presence of Escherichia coli or enterococci. However, the following day, the permissible values for both parameters for bathing water were exceeded.

In Włodzice Małe, the monitored bacteria were detected, but their levels were within the applicable standards. In Rakowice Małe, on the other hand, none of the tested microbiological parameters were detected.

The laboratory of the Provincial Sanitary and Epidemiological Station is still analyzing samples collected on July 10.

Further decisions on Monday

A meeting of the Provincial Crisis Management Team has been scheduled for Monday, July 13. The meeting will discuss the latest test results and further measures being carried out by the authorities.

Residents are also asked not to spread unverified information. If dead fish, dead animals or other concerning phenomena are observed, the emergency number 112 or the relevant authorities should be notified immediately.