Activists File Criminal Complaint Over Taking of Gravel Sand for D4 and R7 Roads

Bratislava, November 15 (TASR) - Civic association (OZ) Triblavina filed a criminal complaint over the extraction of gravel sand from five pits in the villages of Tomasov (Bratislava region) and Most pri Bratislave, as it believes that the extraction related to the construction of the D4 highway and R7 expressway is taking place without legal permission from state bodies, TASR learnt on Thursday. "We have a reasonable suspicion that individuals representing companies at work on the construction of the D4 and R7, or companies extracting gravel sand without permits, don't pay related fees... and don't pay taxes," claim the activists. Furthermore, OZ Triblavina warns that any extraction works in the protected water management area that can lead to exposure of the underground water level is forbidden under the law. Earlier in November, the Ministry of Transport and Construction told TASR that D4 and R7 contractor bears full legal responsibility over the construction works and if any allegations of unlawful activities are proven true, it is up to law enforcement bodies to take action. Furthermore, the relevant bodies have already been looking into the case. "In this context, it's clear that the statements by representatives of OZ Triblavina are not rooted in genuine effort but are fuelled by political motives, seeing as individual candidates and OZ Triblavina members are busy with campaigning in the run-up to the upcoming municipal election," stated the ministry back then. The consortium that is building the Bratislava bypass also faces suspicions that it is using contaminated soil in the construction works. Speaking recently to TASR, the contractor stated that the building material boasts several valid quality certificates and is delivered by a number of sub-suppliers. The contractor hasn't responded to TASR questions about the allegations raised by OZ Triblavina since the beginning of November. mf/mcs