Drin

Drin is a major river system in the western Balkans, primarily running through Albania with headwaters that include sources in the Albanian Alps and contributions from nearby regions such as Kosovo. The river is commonly regarded as beginning at the confluence of the White Drin (Drini i Bardhë) and the Black Drin (Drini i Zi), near Kukës, after which it is simply known as the Drin. From that point, the river flows generally westward across northern Albania and drains into the Adriatic Sea via the Buna River near Shkodër.

The Drin basin covers a substantial portion of northern Albania and extends into surrounding areas. It supports important hydroelectric infrastructure, with several large dams and reservoirs along its course. The Drin system powers a number of plants, forming a key part of Albania’s electricity supply and regional energy strategy. In addition to energy use, the river supports irrigation, fisheries, and transportation in various stretches, contributing to local economies and communities.

Environmental and management considerations are central to the Drin’s ongoing use. Hydropower development has altered natural flow regimes and habitats, raising concerns about ecological health, sediment transport, and water quality. Attempts at conservation and sustainable management involve national authorities and, where relevant, transboundary cooperation with neighboring regions to balance energy needs with ecological and social considerations.

Historically, the Drin valley has been inhabited since ancient times and has played a role in trade, agriculture, and settlement patterns in northern Albania and adjacent areas.