Red flag raised at Tivat beach after Escherichia coli and enterococci detected
Seawater tests on 18, 21 and 24 August found elevated Escherichia coli and enterococci at Dolna Lastva 1; a red flag bans swimming until further analyses confirm safety.
Bathing has been prohibited at the "Dolna Lastva 1" beach in Tivat after routine tests found that seawater did not meet the prescribed bathing-water quality standards.
The Public Enterprise for the Management of Maritime Property of Montenegro said regular analyses were carried out on 18 August, and additional extraordinary samples were taken on 21 and 24 August.
Laboratory results showed elevated levels of indicator bacteria — including Escherichia coli and intestinal enterococci — above the legal limit set by the regulation on bathing-water quality.
Red flag raised, ban enforced
Following the test results, the enterprise's inspector notified the beach operator 4B at Dolna Lastva and ordered a red flag to be raised, which signals a ban on swimming. The prohibition will remain in force until subsequent analyses confirm that the seawater again meets the prescribed parameters for safe bathing.
The Public Enterprise has meanwhile requested that the Institute of Marine Biology carry out further extraordinary samplings and analyses to monitor the situation and determine when it is safe to lift the restriction.
Authorities said the measure will continue to be applied until results show the site’s water is safe for bathers.
Separately, local reports note that nearby beaches such as Miločer have seen very low attendance this season; renting an umbrella and sunbed there has been advertised at as much as 240 euros.
Photo: Google Maps / Srdjan Antic
