Locals warned about the pipes near the hot springs of Bunica, the Federal Ministry of Environment reacted.

The Federal Ministry of Environment and Tourism has initiated an inspection process following reports of construction activities near the Bunica spring, raising concerns about potential environmental risks. The ministry's response came after media coverage highlighted local residents' worries over the installation of pipes close to the natural water source. According to official statements, the ministry acted swiftly upon receiving information about construction work within approximately 300 meters of the Bunica spring. This area is considered highly sensitive due to its ecological significance and ongoing efforts to declare it protected.

The ministry emphasized that the construction involves laying pipes for draining rainwater from the motorway construction site. These activities have raised alarms among locals who fear possible contamination of the spring, which is vital for the surrounding ecosystem. In response, the Federal Ministry of Environment and Tourism has requested an on-site inspection by the Federal Inspection Office to assess the situation thoroughly. If any irregularities are found, appropriate measures will be taken to ensure compliance with existing regulations and approved project documentation, aiming to prevent pollution and protect the environment.

In addition to initiating the inspection, the ministry has also sent a letter to JP Autocesta FBiH, the public company responsible for the motorway construction. They have asked the company to urgently verify the claims on-site and take necessary actions, including potentially halting operations until all activities align with current legal standards and approved project plans. This request underscores the ministry’s commitment to ensuring that any impact on the natural environment is minimized and properly regulated.

Federal Minister of Environment and Tourism Nasiha Pozder expressed strong support for the protection of the Bunica river and its surrounding ecosystem. She stated that the ministry has financially supported the institutional process aimed at permanently placing the rivers Buna and Bunica under protection. Pozder emphasized that the Bunica river represents an exceptionally valuable and sensitive natural resource, and any intervention in its catchment area must be planned and executed using the highest environmental protection standards and existing legal frameworks.

She reiterated that the ministry would not allow activities that could have long-term consequences for nature to be treated as mere technical details. Instead, there will be a strict focus on determining responsibilities and protecting public interest. The ministry has pledged to continue monitoring the situation and working with relevant institutions to implement all necessary measures to ensure the full protection of the Bunica river and preserve its unique natural ecosystem.

Local residents from Malo Polje near Blagaj have been particularly vocal about their concerns regarding the proximity of these construction activities to the Bunica spring. Their initial warnings and subsequent public reports prompted the ministry’s swift reaction. The community fears that improper handling of drainage systems might lead to contamination of the spring, which is crucial for both the environment and the local population.

The involvement of the Federal Inspection Office highlights the seriousness of the issue and the need for thorough investigation into the construction practices around the Bunica spring. It also reflects the broader challenge faced by environmental authorities in balancing infrastructure development with the preservation of natural resources. As the inspection proceeds, the outcomes will determine whether further regulatory actions are required to safeguard this ecologically significant area.

The situation has brought attention to the importance of stringent environmental oversight during large-scale construction projects, especially in regions with fragile ecosystems. The ministry’s proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to environmental protection, even as such projects often face pressure to expedite progress. The upcoming findings from the inspection will likely influence future policies and guidelines for similar developments in environmentally sensitive areas.

As the investigation continues, the ministry remains engaged in ensuring that all activities comply with environmental laws and that the interests of both the community and the ecosystem are adequately addressed. The outcome of this case may set a precedent for how similar issues are handled in the future, reinforcing the need for vigilance and accountability in environmental management.