Urgent Measures Planned for Air Quality in Pljevlja

The government of Montenegro is taking immediate steps to address alarming air quality issues in Pljevlja, following a recent inspection that revealed significant pollution levels. Minister of Ecology, Sustainable Development, and Northern Development, Damjan Ćulafić, convened a meeting with key ministries to discuss the situation and outline necessary actions.

During the meeting, which included representatives from the Ministry of Energy and Mining, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Education, Science, and Innovation, the participants reviewed the findings of an ecological inspection conducted on December 14, 2025. The inspection revealed elevated concentrations of sulfur dioxide (SO2) at a monitoring station located at the Gagović property in Pljevlja.

The ecological inspector discovered that the automatic measurement station on the chimney of the Pljevlja Thermal Power Plant was non-functional. As a result, the plant was given a three-day deadline to explain the reasons behind the equipment failure. Minister Ćulafić emphasized the urgency of restoring the emission measurement system to ensure ongoing monitoring of the thermal plant’s impact on air quality.

In a proactive move, the Ministry has mandated that emission measurements of pollutants from the thermal power plant be carried out by the Center for Ecotoxicological Testing (CETI). This assessment is already underway, and the results are awaited to inform further actions.

Minister Admir Šahmanović reiterated the government’s commitment to public health, stating, “There is no alternative to the health of citizens. Necessary measures must be implemented in accordance with the recommendations of relevant institutions, and the energy sector is ready for any further actions that may be needed.” He also cautioned against misinformation, urging the public to refrain from spreading unverified claims that could exacerbate the situation.

The Ministry of Health has established enhanced monitoring of health indicators at the General Hospital in Pljevlja and local health services, focusing particularly on respiratory and cardiovascular issues. Data collection and analysis regarding outpatient visits and hospitalizations are ongoing, with the Ministry in constant communication with the Public Health Institute to evaluate the potential health impacts of air pollution.

Citizens have been advised to follow recommendations from the Public Health Institute, and the Ministry of Health is prepared to propose additional protective measures should an increased health risk be identified.

The conclusion of the meeting underscored the importance of awaiting official findings from CETI before each institution takes further actions within its jurisdiction. All participants expressed a strong commitment to inter-ministerial cooperation, aiming for a coordinated response to protect public health and the environment.

Additionally, there was a call for responsible communication to prevent public confusion stemming from misrepresented information circulating in the media. The goal remains clear: to ensure the health and safety of citizens while effectively addressing the environmental challenges posed by air quality issues in Pljevlja.