In a significant development concerning the Brskovo Zinc Mine project located in Mojkovac, Montenegro, the Montenegrin government has issued a 60-day ultimatum to Tara Resources, a Swiss company, to rectify all deficiencies associated with the project. Emphasizing the urgency of the situation, the government has suggested that mutual termination of the contract would be the most favorable resolution for both parties involved.
The Brskovo Zinc Mine, situated approximately 100 kilometers north of the capital, Podgorica, has been a focal point of contention, drawing strong opposition from environmental activists and local residents. Originally operational from 1975 to 1991, the mine’s proposed restart has reignited concerns, particularly regarding environmental impact and safety measures.
Minister of Energy and Mining, Saša Mujovic, underscored the gravity of the situation, citing systemic irregularities that pose significant challenges to addressing future safety concerns, particularly regarding tailings disposal and mercury separation. Mujovic expressed skepticism regarding the feasibility of rectifying these issues effectively, highlighting potential risks to public health.
The government’s proposal for mutual termination of the contract reflects the seriousness of the situation and the need for decisive action. Tara Resources, which took over the project in 2018, had ambitious plans to develop Brskovo into one of Europe’s largest zinc mines, with an estimated investment value of approximately 180 million euros.
However, opposition from civic initiatives such as “Za zdravi Mojkovac” (For a Healthy Mojkovac) underscores widespread concerns regarding the environmental and health implications of the project. The initiative has repeatedly urged the government to terminate the contract, equating the potential consequences of the mine to a catastrophe akin to the Chernobyl disaster.
