Korana pollution-free, Mrežnica cleanup under way as disputed outlet is closed

The barriers placed where firefighting water entered the Mrežnica appear to have contained the pollution, according to the Karlovac Civil Protection Headquarters. Cleanup of the river began after the blaze at a paint and varnish factory in the Mala Švarča industrial zone and was expected to finish the following day.

Initial testing near the discharge point had indicated poor ecological conditions under Croatia’s water-quality standards. The City of Karlovac therefore ordered additional samples from behind the barriers to determine whether they were allowing contaminants through.

Those first results, based on chemical oxygen demand, indicated that the Mrežnica had good ecological status. The city said the barrier had prevented further pollution. Croatian Waters plans another comprehensive examination once the cleanup is complete.

Tests taken on Monday afternoon at the Korana near Fogin beach showed excellent water quality. Officials said they ordered another test because pollution from Mala Švarča could take time to reach the bathing area. The results were expected by Friday at the latest.

“For now, everything indicates that the spread of pollution was prevented by the barriers, but until we receive the new findings, the swimming ban remains in force,” the headquarters said. Water inspectors also asked Croatian Waters to close the outlet into the Mrežnica to prevent renewed pollution.

Firefighters planned to withdraw from the site the next morning. Their departure would allow the official inspection and investigation into the cause of the fire to begin, after safety concerns had prevented investigators from entering earlier. Further inspections of the drainage system and work by Croatian Waters and the local water utility were expected in the following days.