Local NGOs and protesters are standing up against the construction of a small hydroelectric plant on the Una River in Croatia. They believe that this project poses a significant threat to the unique and sacred river, which holds major cultural significance for the region. The Una River is home to 17 threatened species and is protected under various conservation initiatives, including the Natura 2000 network.
Despite these protections, construction work on the hydropower plant has begun without what protesters argue are valid permits and without proper consideration for the environmental impact. Local residents, especially those in Bosnia, who rely on the river for drinking water, have been left without access to clean water due to the construction activities.
The rapid development of the project has raised concerns among environmental groups and residents alike. More than 14,000 people have signed a petition to support the local objections to the construction, and public figures from Bosnia, Croatia, and Serbia have also joined the protests. The construction work has already caused damage to the environment, with the original pathway to the river’s source being destroyed to make way for machinery.
Officials have started to assess the legality of the construction work in response to public outcry. While the building permit for the project was deemed valid, some documentation was found to be missing from the location permit, and an environmental impact assessment was not properly conducted. In light of these findings, an agreement was reached to temporarily halt construction until the legality of the work could be further examined.
Protesters are continuing to push for the suspension of construction activities until all necessary documents and assessments are completed. They are also calling on Croatia’s Prime Minister to intervene in the matter. The Una River and the communities that depend on it are at risk of irreversible damage if the construction of the hydropower plant is allowed to continue unchecked.
The protests aim not only to protect the Una River but also to set a precedent for the conservation of other rivers across Europe. The unity and determination of citizens and officials from multiple countries in the region demonstrate the collective effort to safeguard the environment and preserve the natural heritage of the Balkans.
The ongoing efforts of protesters and environmental groups highlight the importance of community engagement and activism in holding authorities and developers accountable for their actions. By raising awareness and mobilizing support, these activists are working towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future for the Una River and its surrounding areas.
