Heavy rains and the melting of snow in the Balkans have resulted in a deluge of trash in the Drina River, which runs through Bosnia and Herzegovina. Over just a few days, investigators have identified various materials piling up on the water's surface, including plastic bottles, barrels, medical waste, and even dead animals, forming a harmful 'carpet' of pollution that stretches across multiple sections of the river. Environmental activists note that this troubling situation arises annually during winter when similar weather events unfold.

The Drina River, which originates in Montenegro and flows through Serbia while acting as a natural border for Bosnia and Herzegovina, faces significant challenges from illegal dumping practices. According to activists like Dejan Furtula, elevated water levels from heavy rainfall and snowmelt contribute to the river overflowing, dragging debris from nearby illegal landfills into the flowing water. This annual occurrence highlights a systemic waste management issue exacerbated by climate change, as the intensity of storms and seasonal shifts disrupt existing waste disposal practices.

The river is vital for local ecosystems and the communities it supports, making the ongoing pollution crisis a pressing concern for residents and environmental groups alike. Activists are calling attention to the need for more robust waste management and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations. Addressing these issues is crucial not only for protecting the Drina River but also for ensuring the health and safety of the surrounding communities that rely on the river's resources.