Shar Planina serves as the primary source of water for both Tetovo and Gostivar. Furthermore, this mountain supplies the springs that provide drinking water to the majority of Skopje and is integral to the functioning of the Mavrovski hydropower system. However, recent difficulties with water supply in Tetovo, coupled with the current state of the system in Gostivar, indicate that natural water resources alone do not inherently guarantee safe drinking water, according to an analysis conducted by the Institute for Democracy “Societas Civilis.”
The report, titled “Shar Planina: The Macedonian Water Tower in New Challenges,” suggests a shift in understanding regarding regional water security.
It posits that reliable water access depends not solely on the sheer volume of available water. Instead, the analysis emphasizes that effective management practices are equally critical to ensuring a stable and safe supply for the population. The findings underscore the vulnerability of the region’s water infrastructure.
While Shar Planina remains a vital lifeline, the operational challenges experienced in key municipalities like Tetovo and Gostivar serve as evidence that robust governance and maintenance of the water network are necessary components alongside the natural resource itself. Therefore, ensuring sustainable water security requires a comprehensive approach that integrates resource availability with advanced management strategies.
Topics: #water #tetovo #gostivar
