A controversial construction project proposing a 58-storey tower near the Artificial Lake Dam in Tirana has raised serious structural and environmental concerns. Engineer Erjon Kalaja publicly expressed deep worries through social media regarding the permit granted by the National Council of Territory and Water on June 25, 2025, allowing construction near the dam, in an area currently used as a public parking lot.
 |
| 58-storey tower near Tirana Artificial Lake (Project) |
According to Kalaja, building in this area poses a significant threat to the safety of the dam, which was constructed with compacted soil between 1957 and 1962. The dam has a documented history of repeated landslides and structural damage in 1968, 1974, 1991, 1994, 1996, and 2002.
“The dam is a sensitive structure with a history of sliding and drainage system issues. Constructing a concrete structure on top of it risks dangerous seepage and destabilization of the dam body,” Kalaja wrote in his statement.
Additional concerns arise from a separate building permit in the same area, which involves relocating the dam’s discharge pipeline. According to the engineer, this intervention compromises the dam’s function and significantly increases the risk of flooding for the area downstream.
Why the Project Poses a Threat
The Artificial Lake Dam has a long history of landslides, including movements that affected the dam crest itself. Being primarily made of compacted soil, the dam is particularly vulnerable to the heavy concrete structure planned for the new tower, which can induce dangerous water seepage through the soil.
The proposed relocation of the dam’s discharge pipelines further undermines its functionality, potentially increasing flood risk. Kalaja also highlighted that the National Committee for Large Dams (KKDM), the technical authority responsible for approving constructions near dams, was reportedly not consulted—a concerning precedent.
A similar project was rejected 15 years ago for safety reasons, emphasizing the risk associated with such developments near the dam.
Historical Landslides of the Tirana Artificial Lake Dam
The dam, constructed with volunteer labor between 1957 and 1962, has experienced numerous significant landslides over decades:
1968: Central part slid 120 meters.
1974: Similar area slid 90 meters.
1991: Lower slope landslide covered 250 m² with a depth of 2.5 meters.
1994: New slide of 600 m² with a depth of 4 meters.
1996: Slide affecting 950 m², including the dam crest, with a depth of 3 meters.
2002: Flooding event.
These incidents highlight the dam’s vulnerability and underline the risks posed by any construction in the vicinity, especially interventions affecting drainage or the structural integrity of the soil dam.
Engineer Kalaja’s Warnings
Kalaja emphasizes the severe implications of the new tower construction and related projects. The lack of consultation with KKDM, if confirmed, represents a dangerous precedent and calls for immediate suspension of the project.
He also warned residents living downstream of the dam to take precautionary measures for their shops and garages, as the risk of flooding is becoming increasingly real.
“Attempts appear to be underway to compromise the Artificial Lake Dam to facilitate construction in a state-owned area adjacent to the Grand Park of Tirana. This is an urban crime that must not be allowed,” Kalaja stated.
Institutional Responsibility and Urban Planning Concerns
The controversy raises significant questions about institutional responsibility and urban planning priorities in Tirana. Constructing towers in protected, structurally sensitive, and publicly significant areas like the Artificial Lake Dam poses both environmental and human risks.
The project underscores the need for transparent consultation processes, rigorous structural reviews, and adherence to safety regulations by authorities to prevent potential disasters. Civil engineering experts argue that projects near historical and critical infrastructures must undergo detailed risk assessments and approval from competent technical bodies before any permit is granted.
Call to Action
Authorities and citizens alike are urged to carefully assess the potential consequences of the construction. Immediate technical evaluations and preventive measures are critical to ensure public safety and protect the structural integrity of the dam.
If ignored, the project could set a dangerous precedent, potentially jeopardizing the dam, the artificial lake, and surrounding communities. As such, expert oversight, strict regulatory compliance, and transparent decision-making processes are essential to mitigate risks and avoid disasters.
Conclusion
The proposed 58-storey tower near Tirana’s Artificial Lake Dam exemplifies the challenges of balancing urban development with environmental and structural safety. Engineer Erjon Kalaja’s warnings reflect the urgent need for thorough review, consultation with the National Committee for Large Dams, and protective measures for downstream communities. Protecting public safety, preserving critical infrastructure, and respecting environmental regulations must remain top priorities in the city’s urban development strategy.