Environmental Group Collects Objections in Belgrade to Mining Complex Expansion Near Zaječar and Bor

Environmental activists are mobilizing in Belgrade to gather public objections against the proposed expansion of the "Čukaru Peki" and "Malka Golaja" mining complex. The "Eko Istok" association announced that the collection of these objections is crucial as they believe the expansion poses a significant threat to villages surrounding Zaječar and Bor.

The early public inspection phase for the spatial plan of the special purpose area for the mining and metallurgy complex is currently underway. This plan encompasses a vast 126 square kilometers across the Zaječar and Bor regions. "Eko Istok" warns that the planned expansion could severely endanger numerous villages, including Nikoličevo, Zvezdan, Slatina, and Metovnica, along with their surrounding settlements. A particularly alarming aspect highlighted by the association is the mention of forced resettlement of certain villages within the plan, with the possibility of further population displacement.

To facilitate public participation, "Eko Istok" has organized two locations in Belgrade for citizens to sign their objections. These will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in front of the "Merkator" shopping center and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the football and volleyball field near Ušće. The association is calling on all environmental organizations, initiatives, students, and activists to join their cause and support the residents of Zaječar and Bor in defending their right to have a say in the future of their living environment.

Citizens and legal entities have until August 3 to formally submit their objections and suggestions in writing to the Serbian Spatial Planning and Urbanism Agency. This deadline provides a critical window for residents and concerned parties to voice their opposition to the mining complex's expansion and its potential environmental and social consequences.

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We call on all environmental organizations, initiatives, students, groups, and activists to join us in this fight and support the people of Zaječar and Bor who are defending their right to decide about the space in which they live.