Serbia not short of water, but needs serious investment in system, says hydrogeologist

Serbia possesses adequate water resources, but a lack of systematic investment and rational management threatens future supply, according to hydrogeologist Zoran Stevanovic. He stated that while the country is not water-poor, essential infrastructure and utility companies often face funding shortages and a lack of qualified staff.

“

Water stress is a situation in which water use exceeds the rate at which it is replenished. It is a situation in which there is pressure on water resources.

Stevanovic explained that the current low water levels in the Danube River stem from a mix of natural and human-influenced climate factors. He noted that parts of the Danube's upper basin experience "underground piracy," where water seeps into other drainage systems, but clarified this is not the primary cause of the current low levels. He also highlighted exceptionally low air humidity, which exacerbates evaporation from water bodies.

“

That is not a good outlook. There must be systematic investment.

The hydrogeologist stressed the critical importance of groundwater, particularly for drinking water, due to its quality. He observed that this year's precipitation and groundwater replenishment have been favorable, making groundwater a priority resource. Stevanovic warned that without "systematic investment," Serbia could face future water-related problems despite its current relative abundance.

“

For the first time in Belgrade, I am seeing on the charts published hourly by the Republic Hydrometeorological Service that humidity in recent days has been below 30 percent, between 25 and 30 percent. Last night at 6 pm, it fell to 18 percent.