Dry canals, dead fish and waste: ecological disaster in Vylkove

In Vylkove, Odesa region, a severe ecological crisis has emerged: for the first time in the town’s history, the famous canals (“yeryks”) have completely dried up. Local entrepreneur and activist Ivan Kozma reported the problem in early September 2025, publishing videos of empty canal beds.

According to him, the reasons are extreme summer heat, a sharp drop in the Danube’s water level, and the lack of systematic canal maintenance. Today, only the Bilhorod Canal remains navigable, as it was deepened a few years ago using special equipment. Meanwhile, in the town’s central liman, mass fish deaths have been recorded due to low water levels, creating an unbearable smell and sanitary risk.

Comment by the Institute of Danube Research (IDR):

“The drying up of Vylkove’s canals is not only a local issue, but a warning signal for the entire Ukrainian Danube region. This ecological disaster reflects a management crisis: without a systemic program for canal restoration and maintenance, the town risks losing its uniqueness as the ‘Ukrainian Venice’ and a key green tourism destination. We urge local and central authorities to adopt a dedicated program for the rehabilitation of canals, with annual financing and specialized technical support,” – the IDR stated.