Dibër authorities demand advance notice of dam gate openings

Following the tragic drowning of a 7-year-old in the Black Drin river, authorities in Dibër have convened a Task Force to strengthen safety measures and prevent future incidents. Led by Dibër Prefect Nexhbedin Shehu, the group is addressing risks posed by sudden changes in river flow levels.

A primary demand from the Task Force is for prior notification from North Macedonian authorities regarding the operating schedules of the Spilje dam gates in Debar Municipality. This information is deemed critical to allow Albanian structures and local residents to take necessary precautions. Additionally, private operators along the river are being urged to make gate opening schedules and flow issues publicly accessible.

To improve emergency response, officials have proposed increasing and training firefighting personnel in the Dibër and Bulqizë municipalities. Other proposed measures include installing warning signs on main routes leading to the river to alert citizens and tourists of sudden water level changes. These safety concerns are heightened by a reported 50% increase in tourism in the area compared to the previous year.