Cottbus on poison alarm: 200 gardens affected by groundwater ban!

Cottbus on poison alarm: 200 gardens affected by groundwater ban!

In Cottbus, the situation for gardeners is quite tense: around 200 gardens are no longer allowed to be irrigated with groundwater. The reason? A toxic plume of pollutants is spreading beneath the city, stretching for about four kilometers and containing harmful substances such as LHKWs and LCKWs. These chemicals are considered to be genetically damaging or even carcinogenic. Information from rbb24 show that the causes lie in a former chemical plant that was in operation for over 100 years. An estimated 50 tons of toxic substances such as paints, acids and arsenic were illegally dumped into the ground there.

The ban on groundwater extraction was already implemented in May 2025 and applies not only to the site of the former company, but also has an impact on other neighboring areas, especially in Cottbus-Ströbitz. The ban on groundwater use was imposed there from May 18th in order to keep residents protected. Loud Niederlausitz Current The ban extends to important streets and allotment gardens in this district.

Health comes first

Groundwater contamination is no small problem. The underground pest is a LCKW pollutant plume that has existed since 1954. These substances are not only disastrous for the environment, but experts warn that they can last for up to a century. The Federal Environment Agency explains that groundwater is an essential resource for drinking water in Germany and is responsible for around 74% of drinking water. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that intensive agricultural use further endangers groundwater quality.

“The city has now carried out groundwater investigations at 87 measuring points, but the results are still pending,” said a city administration source. Three water trucks are currently available to assist affected gardeners, with many elderly people having concerns about water quality. What is needed here is a solution that is both practical and safe.

Outlook and solutions

The city is already planning talks with the district association of allotment gardeners to work together on solutions. A summer water line has been discussed as a possible solution, but the high cost could unnecessarily complicate this option. Meanwhile, there are concerns that the situation will continue to deteriorate. The city is already expecting the poison plume to spread further, which could increase the number of Cottbus residents affected.

The danger posed by pollutants should not be underestimated. Groundwater is a crucial resource, especially for allotment gardeners in the region. Since the ban affects the construction of new wells and the operation of existing water systems, many hobby gardeners are now faced with an uncertain future. Given these challenges, it remains to be seen what decisions will be made to best protect and inform citizens.