Užice: Water Supply Challenges in Mountainous Areas and Reservoir Protection

Due to its specific terrain configuration, Užice represents one of the most challenging cities in Serbia when it comes to drinking water distribution. From the deep Đetinja valley to high-altitude settlements like Pora, Bela Zemlja, or Sarića Osoje, water must overcome hundreds of meters of elevation difference, requiring a complex and energy-intensive system of pumping stations and reservoirs.

Vrutci Accumulation and the Water Treatment Plant

The main source of life for the people of Užice is the Vrutci reservoir. Following historical challenges with algal blooms, Užice has received one of the most modern water treatment plants in the region, featuring ozonation technology and activated carbon filters. Constant monitoring of raw water quality in the lake and precise laboratory control of the final product ensure that water in Užice taps is completely safe for drinking.

Hydraulic Pressure and Pipe Failures

Significant elevation differences mean immense pressures in pipelines in the lower parts of the city. The Užice Water Utility works daily to balance the system using pressure regulators. However, the age of the network in certain areas leads to frequent bursts. Modernizing the main pipeline and installing smart flow meters help in faster fault localization and reducing water losses.

Water Supply to High Zones During Summer

During summer months, water consumption in the higher zones of the city and suburban settlements increases drastically. Due to system strain, occasional pressure drops may occur at the highest elevations. Building new reservoirs and strengthening pumping capacities are priority projects aimed at making water restrictions in Užice a thing of the past, even during the driest periods of the year.

Stay Informed with obavesti.rs

Given that maintenance work on pumps and pipelines in Užice is frequent, timely information is essential. On the obavesti.rs portal, you can find an up-to-date list of streets where network flushing or fault repairs are planned. Follow our interactive map for Užice and the Zlatibor District to always stay ahead of utility changes in your neighborhood.