MoEPP: Water parameters in the Vardar River do not exceed permitted limits, final results on August 4

After white foam residue appeared in the Vardar River, near the point where the Lepenc River flows into it, on July 24, 2026, the State Environmental Inspectorate immediately launched extraordinary field inspections and laboratory analyses in coordination with all responsible institutions. This was announced by the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning (MoEPP).

As part of these actions, inspectors conducted extraordinary inspections at industrial entities in the area that fall under state jurisdiction. The inspections found no legal violations, while it was determined that the entities had complied with the conditions set out in their environmental permits for the management of wastewater.

The Ministry explained that several factors affect water quality in this segment, including municipal and stormwater, as well as the activities of a large number of business entities in the surrounding area. For this reason, the competent institutions are taking coordinated action.

To accurately determine the situation, the Public Enterprise “Water Supply and Sewerage” – Skopje collected water samples at the relevant location. The preliminary report dated July 29, submitted to the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning, shows that the physicochemical parameters analyzed in the sample are within the permitted limit values for discharge into surface waters.

Additional samples were also taken by an accredited laboratory at the request of the State Environmental Inspectorate. The laboratory’s final report is expected to be submitted to the Inspectorate and the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. Once it is received, the public will be informed promptly and transparently about the final results.

According to the statement, the State Environmental Inspectorate will continue its regular and extraordinary inspections without compromise, with the aim of ensuring full protection of the environment and the health of citizens./Telegrafi/