A large majority of Germans approve of temporary restrictions on private water consumption, according to a survey published by the Forsa polling institute for Stern and RTL on Tuesday. Eighty-one percent of citizens believe such measures are necessary given the ongoing drought and the looming threat of drinking water shortages. Only 17 percent rejected the idea, while two percent offered no comment.
Several cities and municipalities have already implemented restrictions to secure the water supply during extended dry periods. Activities such as watering private gardens or washing cars may be affected. Individuals who fail to comply with local regulations risk being fined.
The high level of support was consistent across nearly all population groups. There were minimal differences between eastern and western Germany: 81 percent supported the restrictions in the West, compared to 78 percent in the East.
Support was noticeably strong among followers of the CDU/CSU, SPD, and Greens, with each group approving temporary water usage limits at a rate of 93 percent. Among those who support The Left (Die Linke), approval stood at 87 percent.
AfD supporters were slightly more skeptical, but a clear majority of 66 percent still backed the restrictions. However, 33 percent of AfD followers rejected the measures-a significantly higher proportion than seen in the other political groups.
These drought periods can put immense pressure on regional water supplies. The available rainfall alone is not the only deciding factor; prolonged periods of high temperatures simultaneously increase evaporation and the overall demand for water, particularly in agriculture and gardens. Consequently, local communities can temporarily restrict the use of drinking water for certain purposes when resources are limited.
