Podgorica, (MINA-BUSINESS) – Over the past two years, the Transport Administration has allocated the most funds for road infrastructure individually to the Municipality of Bijelo Polje, with current contract values exceeding €70 million.

The Administration stated in a press release that the works on the Slijepac Most – Ribarevine section are currently halted solely due to the failure of the Municipality of Bijelo Polje to relocate water supply pipes, as well as the lack of project documentation and approvals for the construction of sidewalks and public lighting.

“The Transport Administration has repeatedly officially informed the Municipality of Bijelo Polje about the need to fulfil these legal obligations in order to create the conditions for the unhindered continuation of the works,” the press release reads.

Reconstruction of the M-2 road section Lepenac–Ribarevine–Poda–Berane falls under the responsibility of the Traffic Administration. However, according to Article 28 of the Law on Roads, it is the obligation of the local administration – in this case, the Municipality of Bijelo Polje – to finance and develop designs for sidewalks, public lighting, and the relocation of utility infrastructure, including water installations.

“We also note that the entire project documentation was prepared in accordance with the requirements of, among others, the Municipality of Bijelo Polje. All necessary approvals and the construction permit for this project have been obtained,” the Administration said.

The Transport Administration stated they remain open to cooperation and willing, within their authority, to help overcome existing obstacles, believing that the continuation of this infrastructure project is in the common interest of both the state and the local community.