The conduction of the water from the Pfannbauern spring, situated in the eastern foothills of the Hochschwab, into the 1st Spring water main has created a nearly complete supply ring. The two spring zones cover an area of more than 600 square kilometres.

Pipelines without pumping stations

Via channels and tunnels partly cut through rock, the spring water reaches Vienna by gravity, without one single pumping station. The gravity energy is even used for electricity production along the line. Due to comprehensive spring protection measures, the water does not require treatment.

Groundwater as a resource

At present, Vienna falls back on groundwater only in case of maintenance and repairs of the spring water main, large-scale pipe-line leaks or extremely high water consumption volumes during summer with hot weather periods. In addition, small quantities of surface water from the Wiental waterwork are fed into the system as well.

Annual water consumption in Vienna
(Status: 1st February 2001; Source: “Brief Annual Statistics for 2000”)

1st Spring water main deliveries: 44 % = 63.953,900 m3/year
2nd Spring water main: 52 % = 77.339,600 m3/year
Groundwater and surface water: 4 % = 7.436,500 m3/year
Total annual water consumption: 148.730,000 m3

Karst & water

The springs of the 1st and 2nd Spring water main are mostly situated in karstic regions. In case of soluble rock, such as limestone or dolomite, water can bring about the formation of small hollows as well as large caves. If water meets impermeable rock, it usually emerges on the surface in the form of springs. The characteristics and properties of this rock have a strong bearing on the quality of our drinking water. For this reason, the Vienna Waterworks are engaged in research projects to determine the precise properties of karstic rock. In order to obtain comprehensive results, it is necessary to involve other scientific disciplines as well. For this purpose, water management experts collaborate closely with meteorologists, geologists, hydrologists and botanists.

1st Viennese Spring water main

Its inauguration in 1873 cleared the way for modern-day water supply of Vienna. Spring water is conducted into the 1st Viennese Spring water main via 55 km of additional pipelines and requires approx. 24 hours to cover the remaining 90 km to reach the Austrian capital.

2nd Viennese Spring water main

In the late 19th century, it became clear that new water resources had to be tapped. Over 10,000 workers were recruited to complete the 180 km 2nd Viennese Spring water main. The water originating in the Hochschwab springs takes approx. 36 hours to reach con-sumers in Vienna.

Lobau

The Lobau waterwork is situated right at the centre of the national park of the Danube wetlands. If required, it feeds water from the groundwater resources flowing parallel to the Danube into the Viennese pipeline network.
(Source: MD 31)

Information & Contact:

Municipal Department 31
Vienna Waterworks
Grabnergasse 4-6
A-1060 Vienna
Tel. +43 1 599 59-0