Water Crisis Forces Munich to Ban Pool Filling and Limit Garden Watering

Authorities in Munich have introduced strict water conservation measures as soaring consumption and months of exceptionally dry weather place the city's drinking water supply under severe pressure. Under the new rules, residents may wash their cars only at commercial car washes, while watering lawns is prohibited. Filling private swimming pools, fountains, and other decorative water features is also banned, and pumping water from lakes, rivers, or other natural bodies of water is no longer permitted. The city has also shut down public fountains as part of its emergency conservation plan. Gardens, flower beds, and ornamental plants may now be watered only during the evening and early morning hours. Anyone who violates the restrictions faces fines of up to €50,000.