The municipality of Čajetina is entering the final phase of several key infrastructure projects aimed at improving residents’ quality of life and protecting Zlatibor’s natural resources, according to Mayor Milan Stamatović.
A major project is the 17-kilometer Sušice water supply system, featuring three reservoirs and a pumping station. The project, delayed by challenging terrain and property issues, will reduce reliance on Ribnica Lake for drinking water, allowing it to be used for commercial purposes. Stamatović noted that the new system will provide Zlatibor and Čajetina with healthier, more reliable water.
Protective belts and circulation channels will also be added to Ribnica Lake, following the model of the restored Zlatibor Lake, to prevent pollution and support future tourist development, including villas, golf courses, and high-end facilities.
Meanwhile, the construction of the Zlatibor ring road is nearing completion. This project, overseen by the Ministry of Construction and Transport, will divert traffic from the town center and link to the planned Šljivovica interchange, part of the highway from Požega. Stamatović highlighted that over 15,000 vehicles pass through this section daily, making the ring road strategically important.
Additionally, a tender for a new recycling yard has been completed, marking a step toward Čajetina achieving ecological municipality status.
Stamatović emphasized that the municipality is working to balance tourism development with environmental protection, ensuring sustainable growth and safe drinking water for the future.
