Serbia grants mining exploration permits in protected water zone, sparking legal concerns

Serbia's Ministry of Mining and Energy has ignited a firestorm by granting exploration permits to foreign companies, "Constantine Resources" and "Mineco Plus," allowing them to prospect for valuable minerals across nearly half of the protected water catchment area for the crucial Stubo-Rovni hydro-accumulation. This decision flies in the face of explicit regulations, specifically the Rulebook on Sanitary Protection, which strictly prohibits any mining or subsurface activities within these vital zones.

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The Ministry claims there is no talk of opening a mine, but why would foreign companies invest millions in exploration if there is no intent to mine?

Forestry engineer Aleksandar Manojlovic has been vocal in pointing out the blatant violation of Article 27 of the Rulebook, which unequivocally forbids the "exploitation of mineral raw materials" and "subsurface works" in these protected areas. The sheer scale of the permits—over 5,000 hectares combined—raises serious questions about the Ministry's priorities. Critics are demanding to know why the Ministry has remained silent on "water conditions" and failed to secure mandatory consents from the protected area's management, JP Stubo–Rovni. The suspicion is palpable: if not for the intent to mine, why would foreign firms invest millions in exploration?

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exploitation of mineral raw materials

Further compounding these concerns are the environmental risks. Reports from Mount Bobija detail alleged environmental neglect by "Middle Island Resources" (which acquired Constantine Resources), including the discharge of drilling mud and improperly sealed boreholes. Water samples showing elevated heavy metal concentrations, potentially contaminating local wells and the Jablanica River, are deeply alarming. This is particularly sensitive given that the Stubo-Rovni dam, intended to secure drinking water for several municipalities, remains non-operational years after its completion. The sacrifice of the historic "Valjevska Gracanica" monastery for this project only amplifies the public's fear that the very water supply it was meant to protect is now at risk.

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subsurface works