Ohrid activists demand action on Bukovo landfill and new construction

Ohrid faces growing air-quality threats as the active Bukovo landfill and dense new construction combine to trap pollution over the city, residents and activists warn.

The civic initiative "Zbogum Bukovo" is pushing a petition that asks the Government of North Macedonia and the Municipality of Ohrid for immediate, specific measures to protect public health. Recent studies cited by local campaigners say "every ninth child in the country dies from causes related to polluted air," and thousands live with chronic illnesses linked to pollution.

Local demands and on-the-ground incidents

Activists say the lakeside tourist centre, long regarded as one of the country's cleanest cities, has moved into the top ranks for air pollution in recent years. They point to the Bukovo landfill as the main source and highlight "uncontrolled concrete development": with over 70 new buildings, parts of the urban fabric now create a maze that prevents natural ventilation and, in their words, turns some neighbourhoods into "gas chambers".

Among the core demands are continuous monitoring of the Bukovo site, delivery of soil and protective nets to reduce fires, a clear timetable and funding plan for remediation, and an orderly transfer to a regional landfill. Meanwhile, police action on the ground resulted in three people being detained after they were caught trying to burn cables at the Bukovo site — a practice that produces thick, toxic smoke and directly poisons residents in the surrounding villages.

Civic groups say the debate over clean air has outgrown political slogans and insist on a concrete closure plan with precise timeframes and budgets, stronger inspection, and the final transition to a regional disposal solution, arguing that "the right to a healthy environment is a fundamental constitutional right, not a political promise."

Photo: press material from the event