After another failed winter season due to lack of snow, the Ministry of Tourism announced that Žabljak and Kolašin should finally receive a system for artificial snowmaking on ski slopes by next year. The ministry told TV Vijesti's Boje jutra that there will not be too much work in Žabljak, unlike Kolašin.
"Immediately after the Ministry was established, we hired experts who went out into the field and analyzed the possibilities for implementing an artificial snowmaking system. According to the analysis, Žabljak has the prerequisites for faster implementation, while Kolašin requires more complex work," said Olivera Blagojević from the Ministry of Tourism.
The Ministry has already provided initial funds and the works in Žabljak are planned to start as soon as weather conditions permit. The tender for the procurement of equipment will be announced in the next two months, and field works will take place in parallel.
"The initial phase in Žabljak includes 700 meters of key slopes, which should significantly improve conditions for skiers. The plan is for the artificial snowmaking system to be operational by the end of 2025," she added.
Problems with ski infrastructure
The lack of snow was not the only challenge that Montenegrin ski resorts faced this season. Much of the infrastructure on Bjelasica was not functional even on days when there was enough snow. The K7 cable car, which connects key ski slopes, was not operating due to technical problems.
"The inspection findings showed certain irregularities on the K4 pillar, which is crucial for the functionality of the K7 cable car. We immediately ordered its suspension until repairs are completed. The work is ongoing, and once we receive a safety certificate, the cable car will be operational again," Blagojević explained.
The future of ski resorts
Despite major investments in ski infrastructure in recent years, last year's season almost completely collapsed, while this one lasted only a few weeks. The question of the profitability of these investments is once again being raised, but the Ministry says that all measures have been taken to stabilize the ski resorts.
"Ski resorts are currently liquid, and the income from 15 ski days amounted to around half a million euros. We have also opened incentive measures for ski resorts that invest in equipment, with the possibility of applying until February 20," said Blagojević.
Bonus video:
