PODGORICA – Transport experts and inspectors from across the Western Balkans and the EU met in Podgorica on 2-3 December 2025 to strengthen safety rules for the transport of dangerous goods, such as fuel, chemicals, and other hazardous materials.
The two-day event, organised by the Permanent Secretariat of the Transport Community, combined the 19th Transport of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Technical Committee meeting with a training workshop focused on inspections and enforcement.
The meeting opened with a discussion on how the regional partners are applying common safety rules for transport of dangerous goods. Participants reviewed progress made so far and agreed on next steps, including joint roadside inspections planned for 2026.
Experts from Montenegro shared how inspections are organised in practice, explaining how inspectors are trained, how checks are carried out on the road, and what challenges they face in real life. Representatives from other regional partners and observing participants also presented their experiences, highlighting what works well and where further improvements are needed.
Special attention was given to lessons learned from Croatia, where inspectors presented how roadside checks are organised, what problems are most often found, and how cooperation between authorities helps improve safety. These exchanges allowed participants to learn directly from EU practice and adapt it to their own national systems.
On the second day, participants took part in a practical roadside inspection exercise at the Božaj border crossing. Inspection teams demonstrated how vehicles carrying dangerous goods are checked in practice, from documents and vehicle equipment to safety requirements for drivers. This hands-on exercise helped inspectors compare approaches, learn from each other, and identify areas for improvement.
By combining discussion, training, and real-life inspections, the meeting helped build trust, share knowledge, and strengthen regional cooperation. Safer transport of dangerous goods means fewer accidents, better protection of citizens, and a cleaner environment.
