Threat of ecological disaster: Reservoir in Western Ukraine losing water due to Russian shelling, river fauna at risk

This was reported by the center for advanced training of water management workers.

"The Dniester Reservoir has started losing water gradually. This is due to the hydroelectric power plant operating at full capacity to compensate for the electricity shortage caused by Russian shelling," the statement reads.

Currently, river fauna, including bivalve mollusks and fish, are at risk of extinction.

"Every evening, the area reeks of the decaying remains of river fauna. Additionally, in the vicinity of Bakota, land that has been underwater for decades since the construction of the Dniester hydroelectric plant in 1981 is now exposed," the report states.

Russian forces attacked the Dniester Hydroelectric Station on the night of March 29, 2024, during a massive missile strike on Ukraine.

"In March-April, Ukraine lost 7 GW of thermal and hydroelectric power generation due to Russian strikes on critical infrastructure. Hydroelectric plants operate by passing water through turbines, requiring maximum release from reservoirs," the department emphasized.