Olivera Blagojević from the Ministry of Tourism stated that artificial snowmaking will be available this season at Žabljak, specifically on the Plava Staza. However, Kolašin was unable to implement the system due to delays in the water supply project, which is expected to be ready for the next winter season.
Petko Bakić, Mayor of Kolašin, highlighted that the municipality has been forced to “look to the sky” again this year, as the water supply project was halted and the contractor eventually terminated the contract, bringing efforts back to square one. He added that the infrastructure issues, including wastewater treatment projects, remain interconnected and pose ongoing challenges for the ski resorts.
Marinko Purić, director of the “Savin Kuk” ski resort in Žabljak, confirmed that preparations for the season were completed. State funds allowed the installation of artificial snow systems, with equipment expected to arrive by December 15. He noted that only a small section of the slope will have snowmaking, sufficient to save part of the season, but not enough to make it economically profitable.
Purić also emphasized that the ski lifts are over 35 years old, requiring extensive maintenance and improvisation due to the difficulty of sourcing original parts. While safety certifications are secured, modernization remains a significant financial challenge.
Tourism expert Petar Golubović stressed that the success of the season still heavily depends on weather conditions. He noted that snowmaking at Žabljak covers only 600 meters of slope, and that tourist traffic during the peak winter months is limited—14% of total annual overnight stays. In contrast, Kolašin, presented as a winter center, achieves only 28% in winter, whereas regional competitors like Kopaonik and Jahorina reach 55–70%, benefiting from snowmaking systems that extend the season and attract visitors for various winter activities.
