Is Kharkiv Tap Water Safe To Drink?
No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.
Tap water in Kharkiv is treated and generally safe to drink when the municipal water system is operating normally. The city’s water is subject to Ukrainian drinking-water standards and routine treatment controls.
Because of wartime infrastructure damage, power outages, and pressure changes, water quality can temporarily deteriorate. Boil water or use bottled water during an official advisory, after prolonged service interruptions, or if the water is cloudy or has an unusual smell.
Last checked: 2026-08-31
Ukraine is ranked as number 50 globally with a score of 73.7% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Source of Water in Kharkiv, Ukraine
Tap water in Kharkiv mainly comes from surface water in the Siverskyi Donets River system. Water is stored in the Pechenihy Reservoir and withdrawn through the Kochetok water intake.
The water is treated at Kharkiv’s municipal water treatment facilities before entering the distribution network. Groundwater from local wells also supplements the city’s supply.
Kharkiv Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Kharkiv should not be assumed safe unless they are clearly marked as drinking-water sources and are regularly maintained by the water utility or local authorities. War-related infrastructure damage, power interruptions, and possible network contamination can affect water quality.
Use bottled water or water that has been boiled for at least one minute when the fountain’s status is uncertain. Do not drink from decorative, untreated, or unmarked fountains.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Kharkiv. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions. For easy access on the go, download our iOS app to find water fountains nearby.
Nearby Places
(73 km)About the Author
Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.
I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.
Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job, it's something I truly care about.