A local clinic in Gospić has addressed Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, stating, "There is no hysteria here, because if there were, they would have already been at Markov trg and accelerated everything." The comments come amid growing public concern over illegal waste dumping in the area of Lici, which has sparked fears among residents about potential health risks. The situation escalated after reports emerged of illegal waste being dumped in the region, drawing attention from both local authorities and environmental activists. Residents of Gospić are increasingly worried and are demanding immediate cleanup efforts and more frequent inspections. The Lički water company has announced extraordinary testing of the water supply, with official results expected soon. These developments have intensified pressure on local officials to take decisive action. Dr. Mirjana Vrkljan Radošević, a gynecologist from Gospić and former member of the City Council, expressed her concerns during an interview with Dnevnik Nove TV. She noted that patients have been coming to her office daily, seeking information and reassurance. Dr. Radošević explained that she had sent samples of the waste material to Germany for analysis several months ago, specifically in March 2025. According to her, the tests confirmed the presence of PFAS and heavy metals in the solid waste, while the water samples tested clean at that time. She emphasized that although scientific statistical data linking the illegal waste to health issues in the local population does not exist, medical professionals on the ground have observed an increase in serious illnesses among younger individuals. This has led to heightened suspicion, even though direct causation cannot be established. Dr. Radošević also mentioned that she personally avoids drinking tap water and uses a filtration system at home, highlighting the community's loss of trust in state institutions. In addition to the local clinic’s stance, political figures have begun to respond to the crisis. President of the parliamentary committee for environmental protection, Dušica Radojčić, stated that bureaucratic procedures will not halt the severe contamination of soil, groundwater, and air in Lici. She called for urgent answers from ministers of health and environmental protection, emphasizing the need for transparency and swift action. Radojčić pointed out that the current government, under Premier Plenković, bears political responsibility for the dysfunctional oversight system. Meanwhile, the political party Most has initiated a campaign to collect signatures for a motion of no confidence against the entire government. They argue that the delay in addressing the illegal waste issue represents one of the most critical threats to public health and safety in Croatia. The party demands that the government provide clear explanations and take immediate steps to protect citizens' well-being. The Hrvatski zavod za javno zdravstvo (HZJZ) was also consulted regarding the potential health impacts of the toxic waste. Their response indicated that while certain substances such as PFAS, antimony, lead, and copper were found in the waste and surrounding environment, it is not possible to determine the exact health risk based solely on concentration levels. They stressed that further research into exposure pathways and individual sensitivity is necessary before definitive conclusions can be drawn. The HZJZ also highlighted that prolonged exposure to specific PFAS compounds could lead to changes in cholesterol and liver enzyme levels, weakened immune responses, and lower birth weights. Children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to these effects. While some elements like copper and zinc are essential for bodily functions, excessive exposure can still cause harm, especially through long-term and high-level contact. Despite these findings, the situation remains complex and unresolved. Local residents continue to demand accountability and faster action, while political leaders face mounting pressure to address the crisis effectively. As the debate continues, the focus remains on ensuring the health and safety of the affected communities.
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