UPDATE: Podgorica’s Mayor, Saša Mujović, has just announced that the location for the long-debated wastewater treatment plant in Botun will remain unchanged. During a press conference today, Mujović emphasized the impossibility of relocating the facility, stating a new site would require extensive studies that could take up to three years to complete.
This development is critical as it directly impacts the community of Botun, where local residents have expressed strong opposition to the construction. Mujović revealed that meetings with residents revealed a clear stance: “No construction in Botun,” citing distrust and resentment towards the project as key reasons for their resistance.
The Mayor confirmed that the contract with the Turkish company involved in the project will be made public today, following necessary approvals. He insisted that the city has not concealed the contract, but had to ensure compliance with legal obligations to avoid potential lawsuits.
Mujović dismissed claims that the facility would create a “Chernobyl” scenario if built in Botun, arguing that environmental concerns raised by residents—such as noise levels and possible accidents—were not adequately addressed in earlier communications by the Environmental Protection Agency. He assured that the plant would not commence operations until the contaminated red mud basin from the KAP facility is remediated.
The urgency of this project cannot be overstated. Mujović noted that the new plant could resolve sewage issues for over 30% of Botun’s residents and create 50% of the jobs for locals in the Zeta and Botun areas. He labeled the construction of the wastewater treatment plant as one of the city’s most pressing challenges.
At the government meeting, the Minister of Ecology, Damjan Ćulafić, read out ten critical resolutions aimed at addressing public concerns. Among them, the government mandated that the Ministry of Ecology continuously monitor emissions from the plant and halt operations if harmful gas levels exceed EU limits.
Despite the resolutions, neither Mujović nor Ćulafić provided a clear timeline for the commencement of construction. Mujović stated, “From our perspective, work can start tomorrow,” emphasizing the deadline of December 31, 2023, for accessing funds from Kfv Bank for the project.
Residents remain apprehensive, but officials are hopeful that the government’s commitments will alleviate fears. Ćulafić expressed optimism that community sentiment would improve in light of the government’s resolutions and promised engagement with local stakeholders.
In a related note, Aleksandar Nišavić, director of Podgorica’s Water and Sewage Company, reassured citizens that the project is vital for resolving municipal issues and will be executed properly, urging them not to fear for their health due to the plant.
As this story develops, residents and officials alike are watching closely to see how these commitments will unfold and what impact this will have on the community’s future.
