Imagine this: 24 municipal water utilities in Montenegro are sinking into losses, with a total deficit of 6 million euros in just one year! Yes, you read that right – six million euros in debt, and the situation is only getting worse. Just the water and sewage utility of Podgorica recorded a loss of 1.2 million euros last year. Maintenance and modernization costs are skyrocketing, while revenues from current water prices can’t even cover basic expenses. The result? Debts pile up, investments in necessary infrastructure are on hold, and citizens are on the brink of losing access to quality water supply.
The Association of Municipalities of Montenegro (ZOČG) is sounding the alarm and demanding urgent, decisive action. They proposed changes to the water pricing methodology, but the regulatory agency rejected almost all their proposals! Can institutions really not see the system collapsing before our eyes? Coverage of public water supply services is 87.42%, but the sewage network coverage is a catastrophic 49.70%, and wastewater treatment coverage is an alarming 36.26%. These aren’t just numbers – they’re a red flag for the entire system.
If urgent measures aren’t taken, not only will the health and safety of citizens be at risk, but huge environmental problems will arise. ZOČG calls on authorities to enable sustainable water price increases, but with adequate subsidies for socially vulnerable groups, because no one wants water to become a luxury. This is the last moment to change things – if not now, then when?
So, while costs rise and revenues don’t keep up, who will foot the bill? Will citizens continue to suffer restrictions and poor service quality? Or will someone finally put an end to this financial chaos? If you have an opinion or just want to laugh at this water utility drama, feel free to drop a comment – maybe together we’ll find a solution or at least a good joke!
