Berane lignite mine remains inactive despite government promises

The Petnjik lignite mine in Berane, Montenegro, has remained inactive and devastated for six years despite repeated promises from the Montenegrin government to reactivate the facility.

Once a major economic driver that employed up to 600 miners, the mine has faced a long period of decline characterized by strikes, failed privatizations, and equipment deterioration. Since 2022, the mine has also been without electricity. While government officials previously stated intentions to conduct a detailed assessment and collaborate with local authorities to restart production, these commitments have yet to yield concrete results. Currently, only a few workers remain on-site for maintenance, and the continued inactivity is cited as a significant economic loss for Berane and the northern region of Montenegro.