Senad Ramaj: High costs are endangering the transportation and disposal of waste

Gjilan – Since July 1, 2012, for more than 10 years, household waste fees in the Gjilan region have been 5 euros per month, says Senad Ramaj, director of “Eco-Higjiena”.

According to him, since then, workers’ salaries have increased by over 30% and fuel costs by 50%. Recently, the Ministry of Economy decided to increase landfill fees by more than 37%.

“How important the correct disposal of waste is has been shown not only during the pandemic. Every week and in all weather conditions, our employees collect waste and transport it to the landfill. This is a total amount of 40 million kilograms of waste per year! For the next year 2023, 315 thousand euros will have to be paid. While, from 2024, another 40,000 € will be added and so on for every other year beyond 2027,” added Senad Ramaj.

“Our employees deserve a fair salary, while we cannot, on the other hand, cover the cost increase with the current fee of €5 per household. Therefore, like all waste collection and transportation companies in the Republic of Kosovo, “Eco-Higjiena” has applied for a fee increase of €1.50 per month. PAMCOS is also doing the same. In some municipalities such as Kaçanik, Istog and Ferizaj, etc., they have already approved the fee increase,” adds Ramaj.

In the interest of hygiene and health of the population, Senad Ramaj appeals to accept the fee increase and to pay the fees regularly as before. “Thus, the employees of “Eco – Hygiene” will be able to continue to perform their work with dedication and reliability,” concluded Ramaj.