UPDATE: Just hours ago, residents of Lower Lješanska Nahija (including Kornet, Farmaci, Popratnica, and Šteke) staged a protest to oppose the planned construction of an animal cemetery on city land within the Barutana community. The locals have urgently requested a meeting with Mayor Saša Mujović and demanded full disclosure of the documentation supporting this controversial project.
The disputed site, covering approximately 3,000 square meters in Šteke, is just a few hundred meters from homes and sits above an underground lake that feeds into the Bera River. Residents are alarmed about potential ecological and health risks associated with establishing a cemetery for animal remains so close to their community, which has recently seen a resurgence of agricultural and tourism activities.
Authorized spokesperson for the protesting residents, Veljko Mugosa, emphasized the community’s concerns: “We want to highlight the unique characteristics of the terrain and propose a reconsideration of this decision to ensure sustainable development in our settlements.”
In their correspondence to the city government, residents outlined their demands for transparency, seeking a copy of all documents related to the proposed cemetery at cadastral plot 564/2 in the Farmaci area. They are calling for a reallocation of this land for alternative uses, such as a park, given the community’s revitalization efforts.
The residents specifically requested:
– Official decisions and resolutions regarding the cemetery
– Urban planning conditions and environmental impact studies
– Evidence of land reclassification and public consultation records
The local government responded earlier this week, clarifying that no official decision regarding the construction has been made yet. They stated that this proposal is based on a land survey report that deemed the location suitable for an animal cemetery. The municipality plans to conduct public discussions and consultations with local communities before any final decision is made.
As this situation develops, community members are rallying to protect their environment and quality of life. This urgent matter not only reflects local concerns but also highlights broader implications for sustainable community planning in Montenegro.
Residents are poised to act further, potentially escalating their protests if the city does not address their demands. The outcome of this situation could significantly impact local agricultural practices and the area’s ecological integrity.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds, and learn about how local communities are taking a stand against projects they believe threaten their livelihoods and environment.
