Citizens Applaud Small Restaurant's Sacrifice for Water Conservation
Criticism Mounts Against Major Businesses for Delayed Response
As Gangneung City faces a crisis in its daily water supply due to a severe drought, a local restaurant has drawn attention by deciding to reduce its business hours in order to save water.
The view of Obong Reservoir, the main water source in Gangneung City, Gangwon Province, which is experiencing a drought crisis. Photo by Yonhap News
Recently, due to a prolonged drought, the water storage rate of Obong Reservoir, the main water source in Gangneung, dropped to 15.9% as of the 28th. This is the lowest level on record and is less than half of the average for this time of year. Obong Reservoir supplies 87% of Gangneung's daily water, heightening concerns over the crisis.
In response, since the 20th, Gangneung City has implemented water rationing measures, requiring households to turn their water meters down by 50%, and has been providing emergency water supplies using fire trucks and other means. If the storage rate falls below 15%, the city will have no choice but to enforce even stricter measures, including turning down water meters by 75%.
Citizens Rally to Support Restaurant Participating in Water Conservation
Amid these circumstances, a buffet restaurant in Gangneung has announced in a local online community for mothers that it will operate only during lunchtime until September 6 to join efforts to save water, drawing public attention.
In its announcement, the restaurant stated, "We couldn't operate properly even during the COVID-19 pandemic, but we endured thanks to the support and encouragement of many people," and added, "After a week of deliberation, making this decision actually feels like a relief." Following the announcement, supportive comments poured in, such as "It's amazing to sacrifice your livelihood," and "With the support of citizens, your business will thrive." The restaurant responded humbly, saying, "This is not something to be applauded, but we are grateful for the praise."
A scene in Gangneung with a banner urging the conservation of agricultural water to overcome drought. Photo by Yonhap News
However, unlike ordinary restaurants, businesses that use large amounts of water, such as major accommodations and golf courses, are facing criticism. Some hotels and resorts have recently announced the suspension of infinity pool operations, temporary closure of saunas, and discontinuation of hot and cold baths, but many have responded cynically, saying, "It's just for show after they've already finished peak season business."
The Gangneung branch of the Korea Hotel Association explained, "We are advising about 400 member establishments to lower water pressure and restrict bathtub use in guest rooms."
In June 2017, Gangneung City previously warned of water rationing when the Obong Reservoir's storage rate fell to 26%, but this is the first time such measures have actually been implemented. With the combination of extreme heat and a lack of rainfall, this drought is being described as "the worst on record."
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