Skopje, 20 July 2026 (MIA) - The Government is distributing 50,000 liters of drinking water for the residents of Gostivar, which has been affected by water contamination in recent days. The Public Health Institute (PHI) has completed the analyses and they will be handed over to the Public Prosecutor's Office over the course of the day.

"The Government has decided to distribute 50,000 liters of drinking water that will be provided to the residents of Gostivar every day. This measure begins today and will continue in the coming days in order to provide the basic needs of the population," Ivica Tomovski, Director of the Government's General Affairs Department, told a press conference.

The water will be distributed to several locations across the city, and directly to the hospital and the kindergartens.

Health Minister Sasho Klekovski said nearly 3,100 residents have reported gastrointestinal issues, but the number of new patients has dropped as of Sunday.

Minister Klekovski said the Tetovo Public Helath Center declared an epidemic due to a two-fold increase of cases, while denying reports of information coverup.

"The Ministry and I personally will continue to provide all facts and data, because we have nothing to hide," said Klekovski.

He added that once the PPO gives consent, the results of the cause for the contamination will be released.

PHI director Marija Andonovska said the water use ban in Gostivar remains in effect.

"The Food and Veterinary Agency has issued an order to ban the use of the water in Gostivar, namely a full ban," said Andonovska.

According to her, water analyses have been completed and are handed over to the investigative authorities.

"It is not only important to determine the case but responsibility as well. We sympathise with the people of Gostivar and believe that no one should put their health into jeopardy," said Andonovska.

Government Spokeswoman Marija Miteva said institutions are proceeding swiftly and expect to fully clear up the case and its circumstances.

"Responsibility will be identified, be it institutional, official or individual, and it should be sanctioned. There should be no compromise with the people's health," said Miteva.

The Government urged the citizens to abide by the recommendations of the competent health authorities and get informed from the official channels for timely and accurate information.

Photo: MIA