Hydroelectric power plants on the Neretva prevented flooding of Mostar and areas down to Metković

(Patria) - During intense rainfall and snowmelt with rain, which increased the level of the Jablanica reservoir by more than 10 meters in 48 hours, thanks to hydroelectric power plants (HE) on the Neretva, i.e. Lake Jablanica, the flow of the Neretva in significantly larger quantities through Mostar and downstream to Počitelj, Čapljina, and Metković, which would inevitably cause floods and great damage, was prevented.

Catastrophic consequences were avoided by timely planning of the management of HE on the Neretva by Elektroprivreda BiH, efficient preparation, and maintenance of free space in the Jablanica reservoir for accepting large water inflows.

From the beginning of the snowfall on Sunday, January 4, and then the sudden snowmelt with rain, water inflows into the Jablanica reservoir were on average 10, and at times 15 times higher compared to those planned and achieved in December last year.

All inflow quantities were accepted into Lake Jablanica, and by gradually releasing water from the lake in a controlled manner at a rate of 160 m3/s, the sudden overloading of the Neretva riverbed was avoided, and the flooding of populated areas was prevented.

Current events have also confirmed that responsible and expert management of hydroelectric power plants on the Neretva is of crucial importance for the safety of the entire river basin, and that the Jablanica, Grabovica, and Salakovac power plants are key factors in the water management system.

It has also been shown again that lowering the water level of HE Jablanica before the flood wave is one of the best operational practices in the operation of HE on the Neretva and their active engagement in protection against the harmful effects of water, as it prevented the flood event in the upper and middle course of the Neretva from causing greater damage.

Even during the current increased hydrological risks, hydroelectric facilities, through responsible and planned management, can play a key role in retaining and preventing flood waves and torrential flows, protecting human lives and the environment, and preventing greater material damage, announced Elektroprivreda BiH.