Completed infrastructure upgrades and flood protection measures

The restoration of the Gropat–Štodra embankment on the Bojana River marks a significant phase in stabilizing this critical section and strengthening the flood protection infrastructure.

This reconstruction of an eroded stretch of the Bojana River embankment is part of the regional project “Integrated climate-resilient transboundary flood risk management” involving the governments of Montenegro, Albania, and North Macedonia. This initiative is implemented by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) with financial support from the Adaptation Fund.

The restoration work, carried out between August and October this year, involved applying stone reinforcement to the embankment's eroded section. These efforts adhered to the highest construction and environmental standards. Special attention was given to preserving the river’s ecosystem and engaging with the local community, whose input was crucial for the project’s smooth implementation. A total of €1 million was invested in the embankment's reconstruction: €300,000 for the main project design and €700,000 for construction works.

This project represents the first step in a broader plan to reconstruct embankments along the Bojana River, a key measure to reduce flood risks and protect lives, property, and natural resources. A meeting in Ulcinj, held to mark the project’s completion, brought together representatives from UNDP, the Municipality of Ulcinj, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Water Management, the Water Directorate, and the construction companies involved.

Ekaterina Paniklova, UNDP Resident Representative in Montenegro, commended the Municipality of Ulcinj for its effective cooperation and highlighted the role of local communities in the project’s success. “This project showcases how our effective partnerships can drive sustainable results as UNDP leverages its convening power to create spaces where governments, municipalities, the private sector, and communities can collaborate toward shared goals. It is important to highlight that investing in flood protection is a forward-looking and smart choice – it safeguards lives, protects assets, preserves our ecosystems, and helps communities stay resilient in times of disaster. UNDP is ready to work alongside Montenegro to address the most complex challenges, find durable solutions, and turn them into tangible, lasting outcomes”, Paniklova stated.

Genci Nimanbegu, Mayor of Ulcinj, emphasized that the project’s importance extends beyond construction work. “Through joint efforts, we achieved the first major investment in embankment reconstruction on the Bojana River within a short timeframe. I am grateful to our partners – UNDP, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Water Management, the Water Directorate, and the construction companies – whose dedication and awareness of this project’s importance to our local community ensured its successful realization. Ulcinj Municipality will continue to focus on sustainable projects that enhance our citizens’ quality of life”, he said.

Željko Furtula, Director General at the Ministry, and Vesna Bajović, Director of the Water Directorate, stressed that while this project is an important step, much work remains to ensure long-term flood resilience through further infrastructure restoration and development along river courses. The Government of Montenegro remains steadfast in its commitment to mobilizing funds for the continued reconstruction of the Bojana River embankment system. They underscored the significance of bilateral and regional cooperation in responsibly managing shared water resources. An efficient system for maintaining and managing flood protection infrastructure ensures its lasting functionality and resilience to natural disasters.

Skender Tahiri, President of the Bashkimi local community, expressed satisfaction with the completed work, which he said would improve the quality of life for residents. “We hope that activities for the reconstruction and maintenance of the Bojana River embankments will continue, ensuring long term prosperity for local communities.