Residents of the Ras hamlet in Rogami have requested the Ministry of Spatial Planning to revise the urban plan for Podgorica. They want alternative traffic solutions for continuing the Smokovac highway section towards Tološi, as well as for building a fast road from Božaj.
They argue this would prevent the demolition of about 30 houses, nearly 40 auxiliary structures, and seven drinking water wells belonging to the Rajković, Vukanović, and Novosel families. In their letter to the minister, residents also ask to allow residential buildings that support agricultural activities and to immediately stop any state administration presence on their property related to project preparation or construction. They warn they will defend their property if this is ignored.
Zoran Rajković, a resident, said the community has been struggling since 2008 and wants freedom from what they describe as occupation. He emphasized that their ancestral land should be protected and that alternative routes exist, pointing out no houses were demolished in the section near Mrkojevići. He also expressed frustration over lack of communication from authorities, stating they found out about the demolitions through social media instead of official talks. Rajković warned that protests will start if their demands are ignored.
Branko Rajković highlighted that the highway continuation would cut through his family’s land. He said officials told them the route would likely go through their houses and that no alternatives would be considered. While compensation was mentioned, he doubts it would cover their losses, stressing their deep connection to the land and the difficulty of losing it all.
Milodarka Novosel added that both the highway extension and the planned fast road from Božaj threaten their property and livelihoods. Her family produces grapes but has faced losses due to building restrictions and poor living conditions. She expressed distrust in the authorities, accusing them of prioritizing personal interests over citizens’ welfare.
Novosel welcomed the government’s recent decision to release Sinjajevina but demanded that authorities resolve their issues or they would seek international assistance and block roads in protest.
