The Ombudsman has published a report highlighting serious problems with river pollution, water resource management, and the implementation of environmental protection legislation in Kosovo.

According to the report, the most polluted rivers include the Graçanka in Vragoli, the Sitnica along its entire course, the Nerodimja in Gerlica and Kaçanik, the Drenica in Drenas and Vragoli, and the Klina in Klina.

The main sources of pollution are untreated urban wastewater, industrial activities, agricultural practices, waste disposal in riverbeds and the degradation of watercourses due to uncontrolled sand and gravel extraction.

The report also identifies a lack of institutional capacity, particularly at the municipal level. Most municipalities lack environmental officers and inspectors, while many have yet to adopt local environmental protection plans.

Concerns have also been raised about insufficient staff and laboratory equipment at the Kosovo Hydrometeorological Institute, as well as the need to expand the water monitoring network, particularly for groundwater.

Regarding drinking water quality, data from the National Institute of Public Health of Kosovo show that 11,016 samples were analyzed in 2024, of which 98.7 percent met the required parameters.

Between January and August 2025, 8,435 samples were analyzed, with 98.2 percent meeting the relevant standards.

However, the report also highlights elevated manganese levels in Lake Badoc during 2024 and 2025.

The Ombudsman further warns about flood risks, calling for long-term planning, investment in water infrastructure and systematic maintenance of watercourses.

The report notes that although problems in the water sector have been identified for years, progress in implementing measures to address them remains insufficient.

It calls on responsible institutions to take urgent, concrete and coordinated action, stressing that water protection requires joint commitment from both central and local authorities.