Topolka and Babuna rivers declared unsafe for swimming

Water analyses conducted by the Veles Public Health Center in June indicate that the Topolka and Babuna rivers are not recommended for swimming or recreation. Both rivers originate from the Jakupica Mountain.

In the Čaşka area, the Topolka River failed safety standards due to deterioration in turbidity and microbiological status, which was rated as third-class. Additionally, samples taken from the Topolka before its inflow into the Vardar River near Veles showed fifth-class turbidity and third-class bacterial contamination, saturation, and presence of ammonia and nitrites.

The Babuna River is also unsafe for swimming at its first beach in the lower reaches. Testing revealed third-class bacterial contamination and the presence of ammonia and manganese. Due to these findings, residents are advised to use the City Pool or local hotel pools for relief from high temperatures. Lake Mladost has remained banned for swimming for two years.