UPDATE: Concerns are escalating as the Termoelektrana Pljevlja power plant has resumed operations under alarming conditions, emitting **toxic pollutants** that are reportedly equal to or greater than pre-reconstruction levels. Environmental activists from URA have urgently criticized the EPCG management for compromising the health of Pljevalja’s citizens.
Activists assert that the power plant, which was anticipated to be operational by December 1, 2023, was allowed to restart without the necessary legal permits and without completing essential ecological upgrades. URA claims that crucial systems for **desulfurization** and **denitrification** of exhaust gases remain inactive, exacerbating air quality issues.
In an official statement, URA representatives voiced their alarm, stating, “We have repeatedly warned that the power plant would not be ready for operation.” They accuse the Ministry of Energy, headed by Admir Šahmanović, of neglecting the situation, putting all residents at risk.
Authorities have been urged to publish current emissions data immediately to clarify the environmental impact of the power plant’s operations. “We demand transparency regarding the emissions of harmful gases from TE Pljevlja,” the statement emphasized, indicating that current levels may not reflect the promised improvements following the reconstruction.
This situation is not new; similar challenges have plagued the facility for years. However, the ongoing reconstruction has raised expectations for better environmental standards. URA is calling for immediate action from the relevant authorities to investigate the legality of the plant’s operational status and ensure that all requisite inspections and approvals were properly obtained.
As the situation develops, URA plans to wait for inspection results. If their allegations are corroborated by the emissions data, they insist that the responsible EPCG management must resign immediately. Additionally, they expect that relevant prosecutors will initiate inquiries into the plant’s operational compliance.
Residents of Pljevalja are left anxious and frustrated, hoping for prompt accountability and a safe environment. The broader implications of this incident could resonate throughout Montenegro, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations in energy production and environmental protection.
As public scrutiny intensifies, the demand for immediate clarity from EPCG and environmental authorities grows. The outcome of this issue could set a significant precedent for future energy projects in the region. Stay tuned for further updates as developments unfold.
