Drinking water banned in four Strumica villages after bacterial contamination found
The Food and Veterinary Agency ordered a ban after an inspection found no residual chlorine and bacterial indicators of fecal contamination.

The Municipality of Strumica announced this afternoon that drinking water has been banned in four nearby villages after an extraordinary inspection found bacterial contamination.
The ban covers the villages of Rich, Popchevo, Belotino and Veljusa. The municipality said the measure was ordered by the Food and Veterinary Agency (FVA) following the inspection.
“The decision was made by the FVA based on an extraordinary inspection, which found an absence of residual chlorine and contamination with bacteria — indicators of fecal pollution,” the Municipality of Strumica said.
Restrictions and municipal appeal
Officials said the prohibition applies not only to drinking but also to using the water for food preparation and for serving in public facilities. The municipality urged residents to follow the ban until authorities confirm the water is safe.
No additional details on the specific tests, timelines for corrective action, or alternative water supplies were provided in the municipality’s statement.
Photo: press material from the event


