Debrecen4U
June 30, 2026
Pollution at Semcorp Does Not Affect the Debrecen Drinking Water Supply
The underground contamination discovered on the premises of SEMCORP Hungary Kft.’s Debrecen plant does not affect Debrecen’s drinking water sources.
According to information from Debreceni Vízmű Zrt., the quality of the drinking water supplied in the city is satisfactory and safe to drink.
Debrecen’s drinking water supply is provided by three water production plants located far from the factories. The water is extracted from wells 160–230 meters deep, from aquifers protected by multiple impermeable layers. The water sources and production wells are surrounded by continuously monitored observation wells, which allow for the timely detection of changes in water quality.
Another important safety factor is that groundwater in the Debrecen area flows from the northeast toward the southwest—that is, from the city’s water sources toward the industrial areas—rather than the other way around. Furthermore, the movement of groundwater is extremely slow, at a rate of only 550–900 meters per year.
Based on investigations by Debreceni Vízmű Zrt., the water quality in the monitoring wells and production wells associated with the water sources is satisfactory. The extracted water also undergoes a regulated, continuously monitored purification process before it reaches consumers. This officially classifies it as drinking water—that is, a food product.
The polluter is responsible for addressing the contamination discovered at Semcorp, eliminating it, and cleaning up the site. The Municipality of Debrecen continues to demand a full official investigation into the matter and the immediate implementation of the necessary measures.
The municipal government asks everyone to share only verified, reliable information and to avoid causing unnecessary panic on social media. This is especially important during the current hot weather, when staying properly hydrated is of the utmost importance: Debrecen’s tap water is safe to drink.
Source: debrecen.hu
