After Osum, the Nivica canyons and waterfall endangered by hydro-power plants

In 2012, the Berisha government has given the permit for building 5 hydropower plants. Two of these, for the Driza 1 and Kendrevica HPPs, were confirmed by the Rama government when the Ministry of Culture, led by Mirela Kumbaro, authorized the Driza 1 hydropower plant at the Nivica and Gusmar streaks.

The authorization of the Ministry of Culture was necessary because the area has remains of an ancient city that has never been explored, which, according to scholar Auron Tare, is similar to Butrint.

But the Ministry of Culture authorized the hydropower plant with the argument that works do not damage the ancient ruins.

On the other hand, the projects are being opposed by the Municipality of Tepelena, which should be the first one interested in these investments that would bring additional revenues.

The Municipality that is led by Socialist Mayor Termet Peci has gone even farther, refusing to lease the land with the argument that it will be developed for tourism. The building company has sued the municipality.

The situation is similar to the Osum Canyon, with segments of the same political force that is currently ruling the country are opposing each other.

The Nivica Canons were visited this October by an international expedition. Top Channel has covered the event and will bring detailed materials for the weekly “Exclusive”.

According to foreign experts, the Nivica Waterfall, 220 meters high, is one of the highest in Europe, and yet unexplored. Four new expeditions were planned this year for exploring the canyons.

Top Channel