NLS Demands Investigation into 'Thick Yellow Mass' Polluting Great Bačka Canal
Translated from Serbian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The New Serbia (NLS) party has urged authorities to investigate the source of a thick yellow substance and grease polluting the Great Bačka Canal.
- NLS called for immediate water sampling and analysis by provincial water and environmental inspectorates, as well as the "Vode Vojvodine" public water company.
- The party stressed that if human activity is found to be the cause, those responsible must face severe sanctions, highlighting the canal's historical importance and current state of disrepair.
The New Serbia (NLS) party has demanded an urgent investigation into a disturbing environmental issue affecting the Great Bačka Canal. The party is calling on relevant authorities to inspect the stretch of the canal between Crvenka, Sivac, and Mali Stapar, where a thick yellow substance and significant amounts of grease have appeared on the water's surface.
NLS has formally requested that the Provincial Water Inspectorate, the environmental inspection, the public water company "Vode Vojvodine," and the Provincial Institute for Nature Protection immediately visit the site. The party insists on prompt water sampling and analysis to determine the origin of the polluting material. Furthermore, NLS expects full transparency, with all findings to be publicly disclosed without delay.
Aleksandar Maksimović, president of the NLS City Board in Novi Sad, stated that if human factors are identified as the cause of the pollution, the responsible parties must be prosecuted and "most severely sanctioned." He emphasized the historical and economic significance of the Great Bačka Canal, describing it as a symbol of Serbia's development and a vital waterway for agricultural drainage, irrigation, economic growth, water management, and navigation for decades.
Maksimović expressed dismay at the current state of the canal system, lamenting that instead of investment in maintenance and upgrades, Serbia is witnessing the "decay" of these crucial water infrastructure elements. The appearance of the yellow substance and grease is seen as a symptom of this broader neglect, raising concerns about the long-term environmental and economic consequences for the region.
Originally published by N1 Serbia in Serbian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.