Workers Remove Decades-Old Tree Amid City Street Renovation

Construction workers in Podgorica have removed a historic tree from Ulica slobode as part of a major street renovation project. The tree, which stood approximately fifteen meters tall, was cut down on the morning of October 30, 2023. The decision to remove the decades-old tree has sparked significant backlash from environmental activists, who argue that this act reflects a lack of responsibility towards urban nature.

The Agencija za izgradnju i razvoj Podgorice, the agency overseeing the project, stated that the tree’s removal was necessary to facilitate the installation of underground utilities. According to an unofficial source within the agency, all essential installations were planned to run through the area where the tree once stood. They emphasized that maintaining the tree would have required altering the project, which could delay construction and public safety measures.

Vuk Vujisić, a civic activist, previously urged local authorities and the Mayor of Podgorica, Saša Mujović, to prevent the tree’s removal. He suggested that the tree should be preserved, drawing attention to a similar successful conservation effort involving a historic plane tree in the city. Vujisić asserted that urban planners must consider the identity of the city and its sustainable development when designing projects.

Environmental groups remain vocal about their opposition to the tree’s removal. Azra Vuković, the executive director of the NGO Green Home, expressed her disappointment, stating, “The removal of yet another tree that has adorned Ulica slobode for the past 30 years is unfortunately nothing new. It reflects a pattern of negligence and irresponsibility that has become commonplace in our society.” She argues that cutting down trees during urban renovations is not a necessity but rather a sign of laziness.

The project has already seen the removal of a mimosa tree in the same area a month prior. The renovation of Ulica slobode commenced on August 25, 2023, with an estimated completion date set for November 30, 2023. The total cost of this redevelopment is projected to be around €790,000. Construction is currently underway, with workers focused on underground installations that will include high-voltage electricity lines, sewage, water supply, and drainage systems.

Environmental activist Vuk Iković expressed his frustration on social media, highlighting the historical significance of the tree. “They cut down a healthy tree over 100 years old. This tree survived World War II and the complete destruction of Podgorica, but it could not withstand its ‘liberators,'” he lamented. Iković criticized the city’s leadership, noting that their promises to protect the tree were short-lived and only sustained while media attention was present.

As the renovation of Ulica slobode progresses, city officials face mounting pressure from the public to reconsider their approach to urban greenery. The ongoing discourse reflects broader concerns about environmental stewardship and the need for sustainable urban planning in Podgorica and beyond.