Anhalt-Bitterfeld (dpa/sa) - Since Thursday, the pumping of water from rivers and lakes has no longer been permitted in the Anhalt-Bitterfeld district. "Due to the persistent drought in the consecutive years 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021, very low water levels have set in the surface waters," said the district. Accordingly, the use of water from wells is only permitted at certain times. The district asks that the existing water resources be used sustainably and sparingly.