Montenegro’s Ministry Rejects Zeta Municipality’s Appeal on Wastewater Project

The Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Northern Development in Montenegro has rejected the appeal from Zeta Municipality concerning the Agency for Environmental Protection’s approval of an environmental impact assessment for a wastewater treatment plant project in Botun. This decision has significant implications for the municipality’s ability to challenge the upcoming construction of the facility.

According to local news outlet Vijesti, the information has been confirmed by multiple unofficial sources. The rejection of Zeta Municipality’s appeal is tied to a broader issue regarding the municipality’s status in the construction permit process. The Ministry of Spatial Planning, Urbanism, and State Property recently recognized Zeta Municipality as a party in proceedings involving the Main City of Podgorica and the local Water and Sewage Company regarding the issuance of a construction permit for the wastewater treatment system.

Implications of the Decision

This ruling allows Zeta Municipality the opportunity to contest the construction permit if it is issued by the Ministry led by Radunovic. Officials have indicated that this appeal could significantly delay the project’s timeline and activate penalty clauses associated with the construction delays.

The situation is further complicated by questions surrounding the municipality’s standing as a party in the proceedings. It remains unclear how Zeta Municipality can claim this status, as the land designated for the construction of the collector is still registered under the Main City of Podgorica.

The Montenegrin government, led by Milojko Spajic, adopted a Spatial-Urban Plan during the summer, which not only includes the construction of the plant in Botun but also proposes a similar facility in Zeta Municipality. This development underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing wastewater treatment infrastructure while navigating the complexities of local governance and environmental regulations.

As the project progresses, the interactions between local authorities and state ministries will be closely observed, particularly regarding the impacts on environmental sustainability and community response in the region.