"Protect the Curraj River", the Union of Upper Curraj appeals to institutions: Stop the intervention immediately

 

 The Union for the Homeland of Curraj i Epërm has issued a public statement expressing concern about the interventions being carried out on the bed of the Curraj River, in the Nikaj-Mërtur region.

Union representatives accuse the lack of transparency and consultation with residents, while calling on institutions to suspend all work until an open and inclusive process with the community and experts is developed.

PUBLIC STATEMENT

On behalf of the Union for the Homeland of Curraj i Epërm

For the protection of the Curraj-Mërtur River and respecting the community's right to be heard with the motto: "When the community is silent, nature is lost. When the community is heard, the future wins."

We, representatives of the Union for the Homeland of Curraj i Epërm, express our deep concern and firm opposition to the interventions that are being carried out in the bed of the Curraj River, in the Nikaj-Mërtur region, without a clear transparency process, without consultation with the local community and without an open public debate on the consequences that these projects may bring to the environment, natural heritage and the lives of residents.

The Curraj River is not just a watercourse. It is part of the historical, cultural and natural identity of our province. It is a national asset, a source of life, biodiversity and sustainable development, which must be protected with responsibility and a long-term vision.

We believe that every development project must be based on the principles of the rule of law, transparency, public participation and environmental protection. Any decision that directly affects the life of the community cannot be made without hearing its voice.

Therefore, we call on the responsible institutions:

• Suspend any intervention until a full, transparent and inclusive process is guaranteed. 

• Conduct real public hearings with residents, environmental experts, civil society organizations and interest groups. 

• Make public all legal documents, environmental impact studies and relevant permits. 

• Respect the constitutional right of citizens to information, consultation and participation in decision-making. 

• Place the protection of natural heritage above any short-term economic interests.

This is not a reaction against development. On the contrary, we support responsible, sustainable development in harmony with nature, the law and the public interest. Development cannot be built by ignoring the community and by violating the natural resources that belong to current and future generations.

We call on all residents of Nikaj-Mërtur, Curraj, Tropoja, researchers, environmentalists, the media, and every citizen who believes in the protection of nature and participatory democracy, to unite their voices for the protection of the Curraj-Mërtur River.

The Curraj-Mërtur River is no one's property; it is a shared heritage. Let's protect it today, so that future generations can enjoy it.

Union for the Homeland of Upper Curraj  

 

(June 26, 2026)