Flood Response: Montenegro Army to Build Bridge in Donja Gorica

Montenegro’s authorities are taking decisive action in response to severe flooding that has affected the region for three consecutive days. Although water levels are beginning to decline, conditions remain critical in towns such as Danilovgrad, where residents have been evacuated from their homes due to rising waters. Traffic has been halted in multiple locations, and while minor road damage has been reported in Kolašin, the situation in Cetinje has improved as floodwaters recede.

In Podgorica, efforts are underway to clear the Mareza Canal, which is blocked at numerous points. The water level of Skadar Lake is rising slightly but is not causing issues in Zeta and Tuzi areas. In the village of Donji Štoj, water that nearly entered homes is now retreating. The River Bojana is flowing more easily into the sea today, aided by a decrease in southern winds.

On the ground in Donja Gorica, a key area affected by the flooding, the Mayor of Podgorica, Saša Mujović, addressed the media during a live segment for “Dnevnik 2” on TVCG. He acknowledged the efforts made throughout the day, praising local residents and NGO activists for their significant contributions in addressing the crisis. Mujović also commended the Montenegro Army, including Minister Krapović and Minister Šaranović, for their vital support in managing the situation.

While progress has been made, Mujović cautioned that not all tasks can be completed this evening, although he stated that the situation is currently under control. He emphasized the unpredictable nature of natural disasters, noting that conditions can change rapidly. “Tomorrow, we have agreed with the Montenegro Army to begin the installation of a new pontoon bridge to replace the current one, which has become a natural barrier,” he stated.

Mujović pointed out that the issues currently being faced are consequences of unresolved problems from the past. He remarked, “What we are witnessing is the result of neglect. A canal that was supposed to drain excess water has become an obstacle due to the irresponsibility of certain individuals, putting the property and lives of citizens at risk.”

The Mayor expressed hope for a change in attitudes towards urban values and emphasized that efforts to resolve these issues would continue. He announced plans to clean the majority of the Mareza Canal, which spans 8,500 meters, during the year 2026.

Executive Director of DOO “Deponija,” Aleksandar Božović, praised the work of the crews involved in cleanup efforts, highlighting the unity among various municipal departments, including Roads, Cleanliness, Greenery, and the Inspection Administration. He also commended the residents of Donja Gorica for their readiness to assist in any way possible.

Plans are in place to allocate land for the construction of the pontoon bridge, which the Montenegro Army will begin to assemble early tomorrow morning. This will allow for uninterrupted cleanup operations addressing this long-standing issue.

Mujović concluded by acknowledging the complexity of the situation, particularly near the DJ Arena close to the stadium in Donja Gorica. “We face a very complex situation, and there is no rest, even during holiday periods. It is our fate to tackle issues that have been swept under the rug for years, which have endangered the lives and safety of our citizens,” he remarked.