Environmentalists warn Kicevo–Ohrid highway works are drying the Treska River

Environmental groups say construction work on the Kicevo–Ohrid highway is drying up the springs that feed the Treska River, and describe the situation as a serious environmental loss.

According to the activists, intensive excavations, tunnel breakthroughs and bridge construction have damaged underground springs and tributaries that supply the river. They report that even the main spring of the Treska in the village of Izvor, which once had a very strong flow, is gradually disappearing.

Activists demand an expert assessment and remediation plan

The environmentalists warn that the natural habitats and biodiversity in the area are under significant threat. They are calling on state authorities to immediately create an expert commission to assess the damage and prepare a technical plan for remediation and restoration of the endangered springs.

Minister of Transport and Communications Aleksandar Nikoloski, for his part, insists that all environmental regulations and standards are being fully observed during construction of the Kicevo–Ohrid highway.

Despite the ministry's assurances that the works are proceeding in line with environmental rules, the alarm raised by activists underlines that large infrastructure projects must not come at the expense of natural resources. Only time will show whether the Treska can preserve its characteristic course and wildlife, or whether damage to its springs will become another consequence of modern infrastructure.

Photo: press material from the event