A roughly 400-meter stretch of the 15-kilometer Vlahinë–Poçëm road axis has been severely damaged just one year after construction was completed, raising concerns about safety and infrastructure quality.

The affected segment is located near the village of Karbonar, where the roadway now poses a serious risk to both vehicles and pedestrians. Visible landslides have been reported in the area, particularly near the Vjosa River, which is suspected to have directly contributed to the deterioration of the road.

The asphalt surface has been almost entirely compromised, with deep cracks and significant deformations evident along several sections of the damaged stretch.

The situation has become more alarming as a house situated on a hillside above the affected segment is now at risk of collapse due to ongoing soil movement. Local residents say the damage has worsened day by day, heightening fears for their safety.

Residents describe it as unacceptable that an investment completed only a year ago has degraded to this extent, endangering lives and disrupting safe traffic flow.

They are calling for immediate intervention from responsible authorities to stabilize the terrain, construct retaining walls, secure embankments and fully rehabilitate the damaged portion of the road. They also urge concrete measures to protect nearby homes from further risk.

Until corrective measures are taken, drivers are advised to exercise increased caution when traveling along this road axis.