📋 Tender Overview
In response to the contribution of journalist Branko Vrabac, broadcast at the end of August on Television Slovenia, we explain that, according to the information received by the ministry from the competent services, a temporary dam was established on the Ankaran marginal canal before the start of this years irrigation season.A permanent solution to prevent salt water intrusion is in the works.
According to the latest assurances received, the dam is still in operation and allows the water level to be maintained at approximately 50 centimeters and water to be withdrawn for irrigation.
In accordance with the national spatial plan, environmental protection consent and issued building permits, the free flow of salt water is foreseen in the approximately 2.4 kilometer long lower section of the canal, from the outlet to the sea to the temporary dam. The water in this section is therefore not intended for irrigation. The purpose of the temporary impoundment is to limit the further intrusion of salt water, and it should be maintained until the new impoundment system is established.
According to information provided to the ministry, the first phase of work on the riverbed has been completed. Since a permanent solution cannot be ordered within the framework of the existing contract due to public procurement rules, a new unified public procurement for design and implementation based on the design and build principle is being prepared. The announcement of the order is currently scheduled for mid-October 2026.
At the same time, the new facility will have to ensure flood safety, protection of agricultural land against saltwater intrusion, the passage of aquatic organisms and the possibility of taking water for irrigation. It is a technically demanding solution for which, despite a search on the European market, it was not possible to obtain a suitable offer within the framework of existing contracts.
The Ministry understands the concerns of farmers, so it will request current information from the competent services on the status of the temporary containment and the preparation of a permanent solution. Representatives of the competent professional services will also check the situation in the field and, if necessary, coordinate with water users and other stakeholders. The Ministry will inform the public about the findings and further steps.
