Wildfires and railway fires in Bihać region

In late August 2026, officials in Bihać, Bosnia and Herzegovina, faced difficulties containing a wildfire on Plješevica. Mayor Elvedin Sedić described the situation as volatile, noting that wind conditions caused underground fires to flare up unpredictably. Containment efforts were hindered by difficult terrain, the presence of landmines, and personnel shortages among local firefighting units.

By early September, a fire occurred along the railway tracks between Bihać and Bosanska Krupa, leading to the suspension of several train services. While authorities from the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Una-Sana Canton have inspected the site, there is no official confirmation of arson, despite suspicions raised by local citizens. The blaze caused service disruptions, including the cancellation of specific departures from Bihać and Bosanska Otoka, due to safety risks from smoldering trees.

By September 10, the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina (OS BiH) reported that wildfires in the Bihać region, specifically affecting the Plješevica mountain area and the Žegar region, had been brought under control. On Plješevica, the fire consumed approximately 70,000 square meters of forest land.

Military personnel from the 2nd Infantry Battalion of the 6th Infantry Brigade utilized helicopters and specialized ground tactics to combat the flames. Due to steep terrain and water supply logistics, soldiers used zip-lines to transport water over distances of 400 meters. Aerial efforts continued to navigate the risks posed by potential minefields. Military personnel and equipment remain active in the region to assist with ongoing needs.