Rikavac Canyon faces crisis from illegal waste and animal dumping

The Rikavac Canyon, a popular canyoning destination in Montenegro, is facing a severe environmental and ethical crisis due to the repeated illegal dumping of waste and animal remains. Canyoning guide Darko Pepđonović reported that the situation reached a peak in September when three full sacks containing killed dogs and puppies were discovered in the canyon.

According to Pepđonović, this is part of a pattern of illegal dumping that has intensified over the last five months. Since April, the site has been used to dispose of dead livestock, offal, bulky waste, refrigerators, tires, and garbage bags on at least five separate occasions.

While the Municipality of Bar stated that the incidents have been reported to the police and veterinary inspection, they have yet to receive feedback regarding any measures taken. Local guides have been cleaning up the waste at their own expense, but they warn that the ongoing pollution is damaging the area's reputation as a tourist destination and posing significant environmental risks.