Pensioners in Bijelo Polje are determined to resist any increase in water prices and remain steadfast in their demand for the restoration of previous pricing levels.

This declaration was made by the Pensioners’ Movement during a protest held in front of the Bijelo Polje Waterworks “Bistrica,” which commenced yesterday at noon.

In addition to seeking a meeting with the Waterworks Director, the pensioners have also planned another protest in 15 days, set to take place in front of the Municipality building.

The President of the Pensioners’ Movement in Bijelo Polje, Ivan Zunic, stated that aligning prices for individuals and businesses is inherently unjust.

“When reviewing prices across Montenegro, it’s unacceptable for Budva to have lower water rates than Bijelo Polje. There is a marked difference between the achieved and actual water prices, with the Municipality subsidizing the latter to create a more favorable rate,” he explained.

Žunić emphasized that the pensioners have united in their shared struggle, as they can no longer afford the hike in water prices, which are contributing to an overall rise in living costs.

“We recognize the Water Company’s operations adhere to principles set forth by the Regulatory Agency, but the government and Municipality need to understand our realistic limitations—our families cannot bear this price rise. Utilities average around 100 euros while pensions are only 450 euros, which severely strains our budgets,” Žunić noted.

Suljo Adrović from Nedakus, part of Trumbarine, highlighted that many areas in Nedakus lack access to water.

“Fourteen years ago, a water supply system was established for this part of Nedakus alongside a swimming pool, yet most of us still have no water. We face more shortages than availability, compounded by the new pricing,” Adrović stated.

Similarly, a local from Potkrajce, Veljo Kovacevic, voiced comparable concerns.

“We’re here to express our dissatisfaction regarding the recent increase in water prices. We want all who were involved in that decision to know that we are unhappy,” Kovačević said.

On behalf of the organizer, the Pensioners’ Movement of Montenegro, Svetozar Čabarkapa greeted the pensioners.

Director of the Waterworks Esad Mahmutovic addressed the justification for the water price hikes for 2025, noting that water supply has become a regulated utility service since the introduction of regulators in 2019.

“As per the Law on Utilities and aligned with EU standards, prices for both individuals and businesses must be uniform starting January 1, 2025. While I may disagree with this mandate, we must adhere to the law. It’s important to remember that prior to the regulator’s establishment, prices were 0.25 euros per cubic meter for individuals and 1.35 euros for businesses. As of January 1, the legally mandated uniform rate is 0.65 euros per cubic meter. We still maintain one of the lowest rates in the country. Additionally, the cost of water supply has been significantly impacted by the Sectoral Collective Agreement signed by the Government and the Trade Union in November 2023, necessitating wage increases,” Mahmutović explained.

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