Remediation of Illegally Dumped Waste in Gospić Enters New Phase

The remediation of illegally dumped waste at the site of the former company “PPK Velebit” in Gospić is entering a new, accelerated phase, announced Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković after a meeting with relevant institutions and citizen initiatives in the city.

Prime Minister Plenković stated that residents of Lika-Senj County have no reason for concern regarding the safety of drinking water. According to recent analyses by the Croatian Institute of Public Health (HZJZ), no PFAS compounds or other irregularities have been found in samples from the public water supply, so citizens can safely use the water for drinking.

The Government emphasized that they will strive to expedite the process as much as possible. As the Prime Minister said, the Environmental Protection Fund has made a decision on the selection of a contractor for covering the landfill to prevent any seepage or impact on water quality. A decision has also been made on the selection of a contractor for removing part of the waste stored in bags.

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Regarding approximately 4,500 tons of surface waste, bids are still being reviewed. The biggest issue is buried ash, estimated at between 32,000 and 33,000 tons. Preparation of the procedure is underway, and once the analysis is completed, a negotiation process will be initiated for its removal, with an estimated timeline of up to about 20 days for completion.

The waste stored in silos is currently in an enclosed facility and therefore does not pose a risk to the environment; it will also be remediated and transported away.

The Prime Minister also addressed the criminal aspect of the case, noting that proceedings are ongoing against individuals and legal entities linked to the dumping of waste at this location.

Strengthening of Croatia’s entire waste management system has also been announced, considering that there are other unremediated landfills, including those containing hazardous waste.

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