Bijelo Polje: Permanent protection of the old cemetery near the construction of the waste management center announced

The Municipality of Bijelo Polje has announced the permanent protection of the old cemetery-graveyard at the "Klina" site in the Zaton MZ after tombstones were recorded in the area, denying allegations that the site is threatened by planned construction. The local government, in cooperation with the Islamic Community, will separate and fence the land, emphasizing that potential construction nearby will not endanger the discovered cemetery.

The locals and the local community strongly oppose the construction of the Regional Waste Management Center for environmental reasons, and on Sunday they jointly cleared the old cemetery, which, as local resident Mujo Vreva said, is located on one of the two plots planned for construction.

The Islamic Community of BIjelo Polje explained to "Vijesti" that research on Ottoman and other cemeteries, including at that location, was conducted and recorded several years ago.

The Municipality of Bijelo Polje, as they pointed out, approaches the protection of all cemeteries, religious buildings and the cultural and historical heritage of our region with special respect. The preservation of material traces of the past and respect for all religious communities represents a permanent obligation of the local government and a value that we consistently cherish.

"Immediately after learning that part of the plot in question contained tombstones and the remains of an old cemetery, the Municipality of Bijelo Polje hired a certified surveyor to precisely record and record the area in question. In cooperation with the Islamic Community and the Zaton Local Community, all legally prescribed procedures will be initiated to separate that part of the land as a separate entity, adequately mark it, fence it and enter it into the cadastral records, thereby permanently protecting and preserving it for future generations," the Municipality said.

They particularly emphasize that no construction has ever been planned or will be allowed in the area where the nišan tombstones are recorded, and that claims that this site is threatened by planned construction are incorrect.

"On the contrary, the Municipality's goal is to protect and valorize this area in accordance with its historical, cultural and religious significance. We regret that individuals are trying to use this topic for political showdowns and raising tensions in the public. We are convinced that issues of protecting cultural and historical heritage must be above daily politics and the subject of joint action by all responsible actors," the Municipality states.

The Municipality of Bijelo Polje announced that, as before, it will continue to act transparently, responsibly and in accordance with the law, in cooperation with the Islamic Community, locals, professional services and competent state institutions, taking into account the protection of cultural heritage, the interests of citizens and the further development of that municipality, adding that any potential construction would be away from the aforementioned cemetery.