Una River Under Threat: Travertine Barriers at Risk of Destruction

The association Spasimo Unu has expressed great concern over the potential destruction of the Una River’s travertine barriers due to the ongoing construction of the HPP Una-mlin in Donja Suvaja.

The construction site remains unsealed, with no signs prohibiting further work or a decision to halt construction. This has raised concerns about the potential for environmental damage to the University and the surrounding ecosystem.

The damaged rabbit embankment is still leaking water, which could cause an uncontrolled overflow and redirect the river’s flow, leading to the destruction of the travertine barriers. The association warns that without necessary rehabilitation, the embankment will continue to pose a threat to the environment.

State Inspectorate’s Inaction

More than 15 days have passed since the Una Association’s lawyer submitted a request to prohibit further construction of the HPP Una-mlin. Despite this, the State Inspectorate has yet to respond or take action.

The association has also highlighted the catastrophic destruction of the river bed in Štrbački buk, one of Croatia’s most beautiful waterfalls. The situation is described as dramatic, with the Una river facing unprecedented destruction due to bureaucratic negligence and irresponsibility.

The removal of a large amount of rocks has altered the river bed, threatening the ecological balance that has been preserved for centuries. The association “Save Una” has called on the State Inspectorate to take immediate action to protect the Una river and its ecosystem.

On August 19, the State Inspectorate’s nature protection inspection initiated an administrative case against the investor of the hydroelectric power plant, prohibiting them from carrying out further construction work.