In a surprising turn of events, Kurum International has announced the closure of its steel plant in Elbasan, Albania, amid serious allegations regarding the export of 800 metric tons of toxic waste to Thailand. This closure has raised significant concerns among local residents and workers, as it directly impacts the livelihoods of 500 employees. These workers have been informed of the unilateral termination of their contracts, leaving them in a precarious situation without clear communication from the company regarding the reasons for the shutdown.
As of August 1, the steel plant ceased operations, and the processing plant is set to close on August 20. The abrupt nature of this decision has left many questioning whether the closure is genuinely related to necessary repairs, as stated by Kurum, or if it is a strategic move in response to the growing scrutiny surrounding the company’s practices. The lack of transparency from Kurum’s leadership has only fueled speculation about the underlying reasons for this sudden halt in operations.
Kurum International has been a key player in the region since it began operating in the former Elbasan Metallurgical Plant in 1998. The company has established itself as a significant supplier of iron bars for construction projects, contributing to the local economy and providing employment for many families in Elbasan. With the closure of the plant, approximately 500 families will face financial hardship starting August 20, as they lose their primary source of income.
The allegations against Kurum relate to the export of hazardous waste from the port of Durrës to Thailand, which has sparked a global alarm. Reports and documents published by BIRN reveal that the company has been linked to the transportation of hundreds of tons of suspected toxic materials. This situation has raised serious environmental concerns, prompting calls for accountability and thorough investigations into the company’s operations.
Despite the gravity of the allegations, Kurum has yet to provide a detailed response or clarification regarding its decision to close the plant. Officials have maintained that the shutdown is due to an overhaul, but the lack of concrete information has left many in the community feeling anxious and uncertain about their future. The local government and labor unions are now under pressure to advocate for the affected workers and to seek answers from the company.
The closure of the steel plant not only affects the workers but also poses risks to the local economy. Elbasan has relied heavily on Kurum as a major employer, and the sudden loss of jobs could have ripple effects throughout the community. Many local businesses that depend on the spending power of these workers may also suffer as a result of the plant’s closure.
