Demolition Deadline Passes for Gazivode Lake Structures Amidst Resident Apprehension

The deadline for the demolition of 11 additional structures in the villages of Kovače and Rezala, situated on the shores of Gazivode Lake, has passed without any machinery appearing at the site. This development follows earlier demolitions and has left local residents apprehensive about the impending destruction of their homes and property.

Despite expectations that demolitions might begin early in the morning, the absence of construction equipment has created uncertainty about whether the process will commence later in the day. However, many residents remain skeptical that the demolitions will be abandoned. The targeted structures include ten houses and one village hall. Two families have pursued legal action, seeking a temporary injunction from the Pristina court to halt changes to the site pending the outcome of their case, but their request was denied.

N1 reporters visited a family in Kovače village who were seen removing their belongings from a weekend house. They expressed reluctance to remain in the area if demolitions proceed and did not wish to speak on camera due to the emotional nature of the situation. The family stated that their ancestors had already suffered losses when the Gazivode Lake was constructed. They maintain they possess all necessary documentation under Serbian law, including inheritance papers, but Kosovo institutions do not recognize these as sufficient proof.

To date, 17 structures have been demolished along the Gazivode Lake shores, with estimates suggesting around 150 structures remain. The well-known "Jezero" motel on Gazivode was demolished on July 30 by workers hired by the company "Ibar-Lepenac," accompanied by Kosovo police, EULEX, and KFOR. Public enterprise "Ibar-Lepenac" has denied responsibility for the motel's demolition, claiming they were merely seeking "liberation" of property they assert is theirs, according to proceedings at the Basic Court in Mitrovica on August 12.