The Minister of Energy and Mining of Republika Srpska, Petar Djokic, announced that construction of the main gas pipeline in the eastern part of the entity is set to begin in June. The project is expected to stimulate economic development in municipalities that will be connected to the new gas network.
After a meeting with Nedeljko Elek, director of Sarajevo-gas, Minister Djokic stated that all planned activities so far have been completed successfully, highlighting the professional and organized approach taken by all parties involved. He emphasized the significance of the project for the eastern region of Republika Srpska, which is less developed than the western part, and said that gasification will contribute to economic growth and regional development.
The minister stressed the importance of adhering to the project timeline, adding that final preparations will take place in the next two weeks to ensure construction can begin in the first week of June. He also noted that there is strong commitment from all stakeholders despite the tight deadlines. Djokic mentioned additional gasification plans for the future, including a large pipeline from Bijeljina to Novi Grad, which will require interconnection approval between Serbia and Republika Srpska.
Elek confirmed that the project phases have been planned to meet the June start date. He pointed out that the last major gas pipeline in Bosnia and Herzegovina was built in 1979 with support from the World Bank, while the current initiative is being financed entirely from the Republika Srpska budget and capital investment funds.
The total value of the project is estimated at 37.7 million euros, and it will cover the municipalities of Sekovići, Milići, Han Pijesak, and Vlasenica.
