Health Crisis in Gostivar: Fecal Contamination in City Water Supply Leads to Investigations
Residents unknowingly consumed highly polluted water for weeks due to illegally installed pumps, prompting a criminal investigation.
A major public health scandal has erupted in Gostivar after it was revealed that residents consumed heavily contaminated water for nearly three weeks. The crisis stems from the illegal installation of pumps that injected untreated river water, containing high levels of fecal matter, directly into the city's main drinking water supply.
The contamination occurred between June 25 and July 16, during which time the local population unknowingly used the polluted water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. According to the prosecution, the pumps were placed in a channel carrying surface water mixed with harmful substances, transferring coliform bacteria into the closed drinking water system. The pollution levels were reportedly 48 times higher than the permitted limits.
Three officials from the local public utility company "Komunalec" are currently under investigation, including the director, the technical manager, and the head of the water supply department. They are suspected of compromising the safety of the water supply for the municipality and surrounding villages.
The Food and Veterinary Agency (FVA) has issued a strict ban on using the tap water for any purpose until further notice. FVA Director Oliver Milanov stated that extensive testing is underway, with samples taken from public taps, schools, hospitals, and restaurants. He emphasized that strict penalties will be enforced against any establishments found using the contaminated water.
Adding to the controversy, it emerged that the Center for Public Health in Gostivar had issued a report on July 13 claiming the water was safe to drink, just days before the illegal pumps were discovered. Authorities are now questioning how such a report could have been produced while the contamination was ongoing.
The Minister of Environment, Muamet Hoxha, condemned the incident, demanding full accountability for those responsible. He stressed that there can be no compromises when public health is at risk, highlighting the primary responsibility of municipalities and utility companies in maintaining safe water infrastructure.
