CRNKOVIĆ: WORKS ON TRGOVSKA GORA ARE CAUSE FOR CONCERN, MORE DECISIVE ACTION IS NEEDED

KOZARSKA DUBICA, APRIL 2 /SRNA/ - The demolition of structures on Trgovska Gora before the completion of an environmental impact assessment is a serious blow to the remaining trust in the entire process, and it is time for more decisive action at the international level, as there is no third option, Mario Crnković, a member of the BiH Expert Team for Trgovska Gora, told SRNA.

"We are talking about a project that is effectively pushing radioactive waste to the border, which raises serious questions about the responsibility and approach of those advocating for it," emphasized Crnković, who is also the president of the Green Team association from Novi Grad. He believes that the decision to dispose of radioactive waste from the Krško Nuclear Power Plant, as well as other types of hazardous waste from Croatia, near the border with BiH, is the result of a political process that has been ongoing since 1999. "Such a decision is clearly being placed above common sense and good neighborly relations," Crnković stressed, adding that diplomatic activities should be intensified. He emphasized that it is the responsibility of all levels of government, as well as citizens, to use all legal means to protect the right to life and a healthy environment. "Too often we witness the shifting of responsibility instead of concrete action. Everyone has a share of responsibility and must contribute," Crnković said. According to him, it was clear from the very beginning that this was a politically driven process, given that the location was selected by political representatives in the Croatian Parliament. "Many believed that the EU would react or that Slovenia would raise its voice, considering that the radioactive waste is also generated on its territory. However, such reactions were absent, which further deepens the sense that interests are more important than the lives of people in this area," Crnković emphasized. He says the fact that work on the ground has already begun and machinery is preparing the site is particularly concerning. "Instead of joint development projects between BiH and Croatia, we are faced with an attempt to dispose of hazardous waste right on the border," Crnković told reporters. If there are no concrete results in stopping this plan, Crnković stressed that stronger action will be necessary. "It is time for a more decisive offensive at the international level; there is no third option," Crnković concluded.