In Podgorica, numerous unkempt and unmowed green areas are visible to the naked eye, especially in suburban areas.
The city company "Zelenilo" claims that they mow and clean everything regularly and that many of the reported locations are outside their jurisdiction.
On the other hand, the opposition Democratic Party of Socialists (DPS) believes that the problem is deeper and that it is about incompetent management and politicization of the company.
Neglected green areas in Podgorica can be seen everywhere these days. Uncut grass can be seen along many playgrounds and walking paths, in numerous neighborhoods.
The opposition is pointing the finger at the city company "Zelenilo".
"DPS sees a general lack of professionalism and a general lack of care for green areas, areas that are not regularly maintained," said Maša Šturanović, a DPS councilor.
Sturanović says that in many locations the grass has reached an unacceptable height, and these places are becoming dangerous for the safety of children and pets.
He claims that the situation on the ground is a consequence of poor management and politicization of city enterprises.
"In the city enterprise Zelenilo, there is an increasing number of service contracts, an increasing number of party employment based on the party key, and fewer and fewer concrete results from that enterprise," said Šturanović.
Although the picture says otherwise, the company "Zelenilo" emphasizes that they regularly maintain green areas, in accordance with the plan and priorities.
"The emphasis is on city parks, children's playgrounds, access roads, which have all been mowed by now," said Milica Vukčević from the "Zelenilo" company.
For those areas that are uncut, they claim that they are not under their jurisdiction or that they cannot access them.
"Citizens are not aware that special-purpose areas are from the condominium owners' assembly, or rather, areas located next to private properties, which pose a problem for us," said Vukčević.
And while discussing jurisdictions, it should be kept in mind that the condition of green spaces also shows the level of development of a city.
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