Tragedy struck Bosnia and Herzegovina as severe floods and landslides claimed the lives of at least 22 people, devastating villages and causing widespread damage. Infrastructure linking central and southern Bosnia suffered severe destruction, with homes and businesses submerged, and livestock swept away by flash floods. Rescue efforts continue in the hardest-hit areas of Konjic and Jablanica, where 6 people remain missing.
The extent of the damage is still being assessed, but early estimates suggest catastrophic losses. The railway line connecting Bosnian towns to the Croatian port of Ploce was completely ruined, resulting in significant financial impacts on cargo and passenger transportation. Companies like ArcelorMittal Zenica and Adriatic Metals, reliant on rail for exports, are now forced to seek alternative transport options.
Despite the challenges, Adriatic Metals remains determined to maintain operations by utilizing road transport until the railway track is repaired. The road to recovery will be long and costly, but the resilience of the Bosnian people and the support of the international community will help rebuild what the floods destroyed.
© Thomson Reuters 2024.