Economic operators fined after delays in Prishtina–Podujevo road construction

The acting Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Dimal Basha, has announced that authorities have begun imposing financial fines on the companies contracted for the Prishtina–Podujevo road project, due to missed deadlines for the completion of the works.

During a recent on-site inspection, Basha assessed the progress of the works and recalled that, after his appointment to the post, he had met with supervisors and contractors because the dynamic plans, contractual deadlines, and insurance guarantees had expired.

He explained that, based on the discussions and the reality on the ground, the parties agreed to an extension of the deadlines. One of the first requirements was the opening of one side of the bridge for traffic, while the remaining interventions were to be completed by November.

This agreement was documented in writing, and the operators submitted the new dynamic schedules as well as the necessary insurance for each segment, accepting clearly defined obligations and dates.

“Although we showed understanding for the postponement of deadlines and agreed on the bridges, some operators did not keep the commitments they made. Therefore, in accordance with the laws in force, we have acted immediately with punitive measures. In July alone, the operator on the Vranidoll segment was penalized with 24 thousand euros,” stated Basha.

The acting minister warned that sanctions will be applied in all sections where dynamic plans are violated, until the contract conditions are met and the works reach completion.

Basha emphasized that the same approach will be used in other Ministry agreements, whenever deadlines and contractual obligations are not respected without an acceptable cause.

“Our goal is not to punish, but to receive the services for which we have agreements. For operators who do the work, respect the schedules, and behave responsibly, there will always be cooperation and understanding. However, for those who neglect the work and violate obligations, they will not be tolerated, and fines will be applied against them without concession according to the law in force,” he added.