The national water supply system is in a critical condition, with over 173 thousand Bulgarian citizens deprived of elementary access to drinking water. This alarming fact was reported by Ombudsman Velislava Delcheva during her television appearance.
The expert highlighted the extremely high percentage of water losses - around 60% daily, which calls into question the effectiveness of water distribution companies. According to her expert assessment, these institutions are acting practically with impunity, which necessitates urgent measures to increase their responsibility.
Delcheva formulated specific recommendations, including the introduction of a mechanism for financial compensation to consumers in case of poor water supply. In parallel with the water crisis, the ombudsman focused her attention on serious problems in the system of social-pedagogical boarding schools.
In the village of Varnetsi, extremely worrying educational and upbringing practices were found. Delcheva emphasized that the current model of boarding schools does not guarantee adequate child development, pointing out that the students do not acquire the necessary skills for independent living.
Especially alarming is the fact that children in sixth and seventh grade cannot read, which calls into question the quality of the educational process. In the boarding school in question, 18 employees are responsible for only 22 children, which suggests the presence of serious structural problems.
The Minister of Education Krasimir Valchev reacted to the revelations by ordering an immediate inspection at the social-pedagogical boarding school "Hristo Botev" regarding reports of violence.