The land-locked mini-state of San Marino, all surrounded by Italy and only 61 square kilometers in size with some 34,000 people, is the first European state to declare a state of emergency due to water shortages, as the German Frankfurter Rundschau reports. The San Marino Secretariat of State announced:
“The low rainfall in recent months has reduced the available water resources. We appeal to the sense of responsibility of all citizens of San Marino to use the water resource responsibly in order to avoid improper use and stress that in such cases the cooperation of the entire community of San Marino is essential.”
The situation appears serious. In recent months, the lack of rain and high temperatures have increased the demand for drinking water among the population (about 34,000 people) and led to water shortages. There are several bans. Failure to comply can result in fines of up to 1000 Euro:
- Watering lawns, vegetable patches and gardens
- Cleaning of washing areas, stairs and private roads
- Filling swimming pools with water
- Pour water into cisterns and wells
- Washing vehicles is prohibited, except at petrol stations equipped with automatic systems.