Antwerp Province Bans Pumping Water from Kleine Nete, Aa, and Vrouwvliet Due to 'Persistent Drought'

Governor Cathy Berx of Antwerp has implemented a temporary ban on drawing water from certain non-navigable waterways and public ditches within the catchment areas of the Kleine Nete, Aa, and Vrouwvliet rivers. This measure is a direct response to the ongoing drought and critically low water levels.

The province stated that the flow rates in the Kleine Nete, Aa, and Vrouwvliet have fallen below their 'ecological minimum' due to the heatwave. Several smaller streams in these areas are also experiencing very low water levels, with some having dried up completely. With forecasts predicting continued warm and dry weather, no immediate improvement is expected.

The withdrawal ban applies to non-navigable watercourses and public ditches in the affected regions. Specific sections of the Kleine Nete are included, though the Postelvaartje and Colateur canals are temporarily exempt. A map on the provincial website details the exact areas covered by the ban. Emergency services responding to critical situations and the provision of drinking water for livestock in pastures are among the exceptions.

"We are at the beginning of a potentially warm and dry summer, so it is advisable to use water sparingly," Governor Cathy Berx advised. She noted that current water reserves for drinking water production remain sufficient, and restrictive measures are not yet necessary for that purpose. Water managers are continuing to monitor the situation closely.

“

We are at the beginning of a potentially warm and dry summer, so it is advisable to use water sparingly.