Criticism Mounts as Water Quality Issues Persist in Podgorica

Concerns regarding water quality in Podgorica have escalated following a recent statement by Andrija Klikovac, head of the Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) council in the capital’s assembly. He criticized Aleksandar Nišavić, the director of Waterworks Podgorica, for failing to address ongoing water contamination issues from the Mareza source. Despite multiple explanations provided by Nišavić, residents remain dissatisfied as the water continues to be murky.

In a post on social media on January 8, 2026, Klikovac highlighted what he perceives as Nišavić’s inadequate responses to the problem, which include claims of aging pipes, malfunctioning SCADA systems, and external factors such as heavy rains and recent earthquakes in Niksic. Klikovac expressed skepticism about the validity of these excuses, questioning what the next justification would be.

The criticism is not limited to political figures; it also reflects broader public sentiment. Local businesses, particularly those importing bottled water, have reportedly expressed gratitude towards Nišavić’s management, benefiting from the ongoing issues with tap water. This situation has led to a noticeable increase in bottled water sales, further complicating the challenges faced by Waterworks Podgorica.

As the debate continues, Klikovac’s remarks underscore a growing frustration among citizens and local leaders regarding the transparency and effectiveness of the water utility’s operations. He insinuated that the ongoing issues are indicative of a lack of expertise in the management team, suggesting that Nišavić is not adequately equipped to handle the crisis.

The water quality crisis in Podgorica raises significant implications for public health and safety. As authorities grapple with these challenges, the need for a comprehensive strategy to restore confidence in the city’s water supply is becoming increasingly urgent.

With the situation evolving, it remains to be seen how Waterworks Podgorica will address these persistent issues and if any changes in leadership or policy will occur to restore public trust. As residents await solutions, the call for accountability within the utility company is louder than ever.