Imagine living in a place neglected for decades, where roads crumble and investments seem forgotten! Welcome to Plav, the north of Montenegro, where the municipality’s top man, Nihad Canović, doesn’t hold back: “The north has been neglected for too long!” While other parts of the country see new buildings and infrastructure investments, Plav still waits for its moment in the sun.
Canović proudly points to the reconstruction of numerous roads, the cultural center, health center, and sports facilities over the past year, but he makes it clear that it’s not enough. “The state must increase investment levels in the north!” he says, stressing that the current capital budget model only deepens inequalities between the north, center, and south of Montenegro.
Tourism and agriculture are strategic development sectors for Plav, but without proper infrastructure and transport connections, it’s all just talk. The Prokletije National Park, a natural gem, is underappreciated, and Plav Lake, which is threatened, urgently needs protection to prevent its disappearance.
In July, a home for the elderly will open, and work is underway on a new street that will connect key points in the town. However, Canović warns: “Citizens’ expectations are higher, and the state must recognize the development opportunity the north of Montenegro offers.”
Will Plav finally get balanced regional development or remain forgotten in the shadows? While we wait for an answer, we can only wonder how many more years will pass before something truly changes. What do you think about the neglect of the north? Is it time to shake things up, or is this just another never-ending story? Drop a comment, maybe your word will start an avalanche!
