Water pollution in North Macedonian rivers

Water quality assessments in North Macedonia have identified significant pollution levels in several major river systems. In early September, the Directorate for Hydrometeorological Works (UHMR) identified the Strumica River, particularly near Novo Konjarevo, as one of the country’s most contaminated water bodies. Pollutants such as nutrients, phosphates, and nitrites were detected, attributed to agricultural runoff and fecal matter from settlements lacking proper wastewater treatment. Local reports noted a decline in biodiversity and the disappearance of various fish species.

By mid-September, analyses by the Public Health Center Veles revealed severe pollution in the Vardar River near the city of Veles. Testing at Bashino Selo and Dolni Dukjani showed evidence of both old and new fecal contamination. While bacterial contamination showed slight improvement compared to a decade ago, turbidity and ammonia levels were rated in the fifth class, and phosphates were in the fourth class. Health officials declared the water unfit for swimming or recreational activities, citing untreated sewage and potential industrial waste as likely causes.