Varaždin's asking for the removal of the underground power lines.

Residents of Varaždin have raised concerns over dense vegetation growing beneath high-voltage power lines, citing increased fire risks due to prolonged drought conditions and high temperatures. The community has called for the removal of undergrowth and tall grass along the corridor of the transmission line connecting Nedeljanec and Varaždin. Local resident Stjepan Plavec highlighted the potential danger posed by the lack of maintenance, noting that the area, specifically the Šuma Čret forest, has not been cleared in nearly five years. He emphasized that while the power line itself does not lie on private land, the surrounding areas include both private parcels and forests, which residents are not legally obligated to maintain due to safety restrictions around high-voltage equipment. The issue has sparked discussions among local authorities and energy officials. According to Plavec, the responsibility for maintaining the corridor lies with the Croatian Transmission System Operator (HOPS). HOPS confirmed in a statement that there is currently no direct threat to the safe operation of the power line or risk of fire. However, they acknowledged that the removal of vegetation is planned and will be carried out as soon as possible. Their workers regularly inspect the area and remove potential hazards, though this particular section had not received attention in recent years. Despite assurances from HOPS that the electrical system’s security is not compromised, many residents remain concerned. They argue that even indirect threats should not be ignored, especially given the current weather conditions. Some have pointed out that the neglect of the corridor could lead to serious consequences if a fire were to break out, particularly during periods of extreme heat and dryness. The community has urged local officials to expedite the process, emphasizing the need for proactive measures rather than waiting for a crisis to occur. The situation has drawn attention from both local and national media, highlighting the broader issue of infrastructure maintenance in rural areas. While HOPS maintains that its operations are routine and well-managed, critics suggest that more frequent inspections and communication with nearby communities might help prevent such situations. The company has not yet commented publicly on whether additional resources would be allocated to address the specific concerns raised in Varaždin. Local officials have not issued formal statements on the matter, leaving the responsibility primarily with HOPS. Residents continue to monitor developments, hoping for swift action. In the meantime, some have taken it upon themselves to raise awareness through social media and community meetings, urging others to stay vigilant and report any signs of potential risk. The power line in question runs through a mix of public and private land, complicating efforts to ensure consistent maintenance. While HOPS operates under strict safety protocols, the legal and logistical challenges associated with clearing vegetation near high-voltage lines can delay necessary work. This case underscores the delicate balance between ensuring public safety and managing the practicalities of infrastructure upkeep in densely vegetated regions. Authorities have not yet scheduled a public meeting to discuss the issue further, but residents are preparing to push for greater transparency and accountability. As the summer season progresses and temperatures remain elevated, the urgency for action continues to grow. A final decision on the timing and scope of the vegetation clearance project is pending, with HOPS committed to addressing the concern in the coming weeks.