Gostivar, 11 August 2026 (MIA) - The water in Gostivar is close to being declared safe for drinking, says the local crisis HQ, noting that the latest results of microbiological analyses are promising.

Local HQ coordinator Zudi Xhelili said Tuesday the decision on lifting the water use ban should be taken at a meeting of the Central Crisis HQ.

"Results of the microbiological analyses have been promising for a while now but the increased quantities of chlorine, used for disinfection purposes, was a problem. We hope that the Central Crisis HQ will meet tomorrow or the day after tomorrow and inform the public that the water in Gostivar is safe for drinking," Xhelili told MIA.

He added that authorities are also working on stabilizing the water supply in areas of low water pressure or lack of it.

"We are working hard on finishing the construction of a reservoir in the village of Gorna Banjica, which will lead to significant improvement of the restricted water supply in the municipality's southern settlements," said Xhelili.

Water tanks have been providing technical water for Gostivar residents, whereas bottled water has been distributed for drinking over the past four weeks.

Photo: MIA