Munich, Bavaria, Germany – In response to mounting concerns over water scarcity, the city of Munich has announced plans to technically upgrade its urban fountains. This initiative comes after several fountains, including the iconic Fischbrunnen on Marienplatz, were temporarily shut down due to a general order to reduce water consumption.
City Council Approves 900,000 Euro Investment
The Munich City Council unanimously commissioned the Department of Construction to retrofit at least 30 high-consumption fountains with measurement, control, and regulation (MCR) technology over the next three years. A total of 900,000 Euros has been allocated for this project, with the city anticipating that these costs will be recouped within two to four years through reduced water and wastewater expenses.
The famous Fischbrunnen in front of the Rathaus on Marienplatz is slated to be the first to receive the new control technology, with the upgrade expected to be completed “during the current fountain season.” Ten additional fountains are scheduled for retrofitting by the start of the next fountain season. These upgrades are projected to save approximately 300 cubic meters of water per day when the fountains are in operation.
Water Scarcity Measures Already in Place
The city of Munich issued a general order on July 14 to reduce water consumption, prohibiting activities such as filling private pools, watering lawns, and washing cars at home. Violations of this order can result in fines of up to 50,000 Euros. In conjunction with these measures, the city had also temporarily switched off the ten fountains with the highest water consumption.
Mayor Emphasizes Balance Between Aesthetics and Conservation
Munich’s Lord Mayor, Dominik Krause (Green Party), stated that the deactivated fountains should not be a permanent situation. “This must not be a permanent state,” Krause said. “The installation of modern control technology is a good compromise that allows both: sparkling fountains and reduced consumption of drinking water.” He expressed particular pleasure that “the Fischbrunnen can be retrofitted in August, so that we can soon put Munich’s most famous fountain back into operation.”
Broader Context of Water Conservation Efforts
This move is part of broader efforts in Bavaria to combat water scarcity. Recent reports indicate that citizens are being advised not to draw water from rivers due to dry conditions, and a week after initial prohibitions, Munich residents have already shown a reduction in water usage. The city’s fire department is also preparing for potential assistance in other regions, such as Bordeaux, highlighting the widespread impact of climate-related challenges.
This investment in fountain technology demonstrates Munich’s commitment to sustainable urban development and responsible resource management, balancing the aesthetic and cultural value of its public spaces with the pressing need for water conservation.
