Kuç, Shushicë – April 5, 2025. Residents of the Shushica Valley continued their protest this Saturday against the Himara Aqueduct project, which aims to extract water from the Lëpusha spring – the source of the Shushica River.
Representatives from 36 villages demanded an immediate halt to the works and the removal of machinery from the river area. Their two-year-long protest escalated with the setup of a symbolic resistance tent by the river, representing a physical blockade against the company’s pipes—a first step that could be repeated.
The project foresees the diversion of the river’s main source, potentially depriving 37 villages in Vlorë of water and threatening the integrity of the Vjosa Wild River National Park.
EcoAlbania and 54 residents of the valley have filed a lawsuit at the Administrative Court of Lushnje. Defendants include the Municipality of Himara, the National Agency of Protected Areas, and the National Environment Agency. The next court hearing is scheduled for April 11, at 13:00, in Lushnje.
Residents and partner organizations of the “Save the Blue Heart of Europe” campaign are calling for: The cancellation of the project and suspension of all works until the court reaches a decision. Their message: “Don’t touch Shushica! Protect the Vjosa Wild River National Park!”
