Expert Urges Modern Wastewater Treatment Solutions for Podgorica

The treatment of sanitary wastewater in Podgorica requires urgent attention and modernization, according to environmental expert Bojan Buric. In a recent statement, Buric emphasized the need for a cutting-edge treatment system rather than merely focusing on the location of the treatment facility, as current discussions have suggested.

Buric’s proposal distinguishes between the collection system and the treatment process, highlighting that a modern treatment facility can significantly mitigate environmental impact, regardless of its placement. He states, “When there is a perfect treatment system, it becomes completely irrelevant where the facility is located.”

The expert called for a comprehensive design that includes hermetic sealing of digesters and tanks, as well as the capture and safe filtration of gases. He noted the importance of ensuring the highest quality parameters of treated water and the implementation of safe solutions for sewage sludge. Buric previously articulated these ideas in an article published on September 23, 2025, arguing that the project could have been completed by now to avoid the ongoing confusion surrounding the issue.

Despite lacking technical expertise in wastewater treatment, Buric has extensive knowledge in environmental protection as a hydrogeologist. He has contributed to numerous environmental studies and has been part of both domestic and international project teams. His experience includes leading significant environmental assessments in the Zetska Plain, where he established necessary benchmarks for environmental protection.

Buric urges the involvement of specialists renowned for their expertise in wastewater treatment, expressing hope that his suggestions will be taken seriously to facilitate a swift resolution. He pointed out that specialists from Belgrade and other international centers have confirmed that the system can be redesigned and upgraded during construction, ensuring safety and effectiveness.

A significant aspect of this project is the separation of stormwater from sewage systems, which Buric believes is essential. He has ideas regarding this separation but lacks sufficient information about the system to provide concrete proposals. He expressed confidence that experts featured on local television would address this crucial component.

The ongoing chaos surrounding the wastewater treatment issue has frustrated Buric, who criticizes the treatment of knowledgeable specialists by local stakeholders. He lamented that instead of welcoming expert advice, some local representatives have belittled these professionals publicly.

Buric highlighted a concerning incident regarding the Mareza water source, which was reportedly contaminated due to blockage in its drainage canal located five kilometers downstream. He stated, “It became clear that we are living in a type of professional madness.” He criticized claims that contamination could occur downstream after water has already flowed from the source, asserting that such misconceptions need to be addressed seriously.

He firmly believes that if the citizens and government continue to support misguided narratives about the Mareza source and the wastewater collector, they will only perpetuate chaos. Buric argues that it is crucial to prevent uninformed individuals from making decisions about such significant issues, urging that competent experts should be allowed to guide the redesign of existing solutions.

He also voiced concerns about the existing chaos, suggesting that it resembles organized environmental crime and poses serious legal implications. Buric cautioned against allowing individuals without proper qualifications to make decisions on critical matters with far-reaching consequences.

The ongoing situation demands that qualified experts guarantee the safety of any proposed solutions. Buric emphasized that the specialists who have already indicated a willingness to assist should be allowed to refine the existing project to build the most advanced and secure wastewater treatment system.

In conclusion, Buric called on local authorities to actively involve these experts in the project to ensure that the best practices are implemented. He reiterated that once an effective treatment system is in place, the location’s environmental impact becomes negligible. The time is now for Podgorica to embrace modern solutions for wastewater treatment, ensuring the health and safety of its citizens and environment.