OSCE Mission seriously concerned over environmental incidents in Serbia, calls for remedies
(OSCE/Milan Obradovic)The Temple of Saint Sava, pictured on the right, one of Belgrade's landmarks, is barely visible in the distance because of the morning pollution. (OSCE/Milan Obradovic) Photo details
BELGRADE, 17 November 2006 - The Head of the OSCE Mission to Serbia expressed his serious concern today over pollution in Pancevo, north-east of Belgrade, which is a major health hazard for the local population.
On 14 November, Pancevo local authorities had to activate a public alarm system after the levels of benzene in the air increased to more than ten times the minimum safety level. The emissions came from a state-run petrochemical plant, where one of the facilities has now been closed down until further notice. Although the toxin levels have dropped, the situation remains unstable.
"The frequency of such incidents in the country indicates that the mechanisms of environmental protection in Serbia are insufficient," said Ambassador Hans Ola Urstad, Head of the OSCE Mission.
"This also shows how urgent it is to adopt the many pending environmental laws, along with follow-up rules and regulations, and implement the existing laws on environmental protection as swiftly as possible."
"The OSCE Mission to Serbia stands ready to support the Serbian Government on environmental issues," he added.
On 14 November, Pancevo local authorities had to activate a public alarm system after the levels of benzene in the air increased to more than ten times the minimum safety level. The emissions came from a state-run petrochemical plant, where one of the facilities has now been closed down until further notice. Although the toxin levels have dropped, the situation remains unstable.
"The frequency of such incidents in the country indicates that the mechanisms of environmental protection in Serbia are insufficient," said Ambassador Hans Ola Urstad, Head of the OSCE Mission.
"This also shows how urgent it is to adopt the many pending environmental laws, along with follow-up rules and regulations, and implement the existing laws on environmental protection as swiftly as possible."
"The OSCE Mission to Serbia stands ready to support the Serbian Government on environmental issues," he added.