The Jugohrom landfill in Jegunovce contains 2.2 million tons of waste, of which 7,388 tons are hexavalent chromium - one of the most carcinogenic substances known to science. Nearby groundwater contains up to 100,000 times more chromium than permitted levels. And the Rašče spring - which supplies Skopje with drinking water - sits just 80 meters away.

Numbers that chill the blood

Hexavalent chromium concentration in groundwater: 10-500 mg/L, sometimes reaching 1,000 mg/L in drainage systems. The permitted level: 0.01 mg/L. Every day, 40-70 kilograms of hexavalent chromium enters the Vardar River. Water downstream from the landfill contains seven times more chromium than allowed.

Professor Trajče Stafilov confirms that the current water quality at Rašče is excellent, but warns: "No one can determine whether or when contaminated groundwater might reach Rašče's sources. We know that waters from the Šar range flow beneath the landfill, creating a constant risk."

Seven solutions, none of them cheap

The study proposes seven possible solutions. Covering and drainage costs roughly EUR 20 million but doesn't solve the problem long-term. Relocating to a local site with physical isolation costs about EUR 54 million. Removing the waste abroad solves it permanently but costs EUR 90 million.

The Environment Ministry identifies the first two options as "most acceptable." The annual budget for the treatment plant: 17 million denars - enough for maintenance, not for improvements. A working group has yet to be formed.

Eco Svest warns the Ministry has had the document for over a year. A full year - while 7,388 tons of chromium sit 80 meters from the water we drink. How much more time needs to pass before someone decides?