Experts Call for Advanced Wastewater Treatment in Podgorica

The debate surrounding the wastewater treatment solutions in Podgorica has stirred significant attention among local residents and environmental experts. A prominent hydrogeologist and former Environmental Protection Minister has expressed that the solution for managing sanitary wastewater in the city is straightforward, yet has not been fully embraced due to ongoing miscommunications regarding the project’s scope.

In a recent statement, the hydrogeologist emphasized the need to differentiate between a collector system, which gathers wastewater, and the actual treatment system. He proposed that the treatment system should incorporate the most advanced technologies available. With a high-quality treatment system in place, the exact location of the facility—whether outside or within city limits—becomes irrelevant.

The hydrogeologist, with extensive experience in environmental protection and water quality, highlighted that proper project design should include hermetic sealing of digesters and tanks, capturing and safely filtering gases, and ensuring optimal quality parameters for treated water. He reiterated that these recommendations were initially suggested in a report published on September 23, 2025, and could have been implemented to avoid the current confusion surrounding the project.

Despite his expertise, the hydrogeologist pointed out that he has been excluded from ongoing discussions surrounding the project. He has contributed to numerous domestic and international environmental initiatives and has led significant studies on the Zetska Plain, where critical decisions regarding wastewater management are being made.

Local residents have taken their concerns to heart and sought the advice of external experts from Belgrade and other renowned international environmental centers. These specialists have confirmed that the existing system can be redesigned and enhanced. They reiterated the importance of separating stormwater from wastewater systems as a crucial component of the project.

The hydrogeologist expressed frustration over the ongoing chaos, stating that rather than collaborating with experts, some local authorities have belittled their contributions. Recently, it was reported that the water from the Mareza spring has become murky due to sedimentation in the drainage channel located five kilometers downstream. This situation has raised alarm about the local understanding of environmental processes.

The hydrogeologist criticized the notion that the source of the water could be contaminated after it has already flowed from the spring. He highlighted the need for clear communication and informed decision-making to avoid perpetuating misinformation.

As the situation develops, it is essential that qualified experts spearhead the redesign of the wastewater treatment system to ensure its safety and effectiveness. The hydrogeologist has called for an end to the chaos caused by uninformed parties, urging that those involved in the project be held accountable, regardless of their official roles.

He stressed that it is dangerous to allow unqualified individuals to dictate standards and solutions for such a vital public concern. The current state of disarray resembles organized ecological negligence that could carry serious legal repercussions.

Experts have already proposed concepts for refining the existing project, indicating that segmentation and safety measures are possible. They have also made it clear that all stakeholders involved, from auditing agencies to local institutions, share responsibility for the current situation.

To ensure a successful resolution, it is crucial that competent professionals are allowed to lead the redesign efforts. The hydrogeologist reiterated that the focus should not be on the project’s location but rather on implementing the best technology available. As experts continue to address these pressing issues, the emphasis must remain on establishing a safe and efficient wastewater treatment system for the benefit of the community and the environment.