Second tube of Učka Tunnel has been dug out and could be ready by next summer

After two years of digging, a second tube the Učka Tunnel has been cleared and once completed will make for faster travel between Istria and the Kvarner region. 

The 5.6 meter long tube could be completed by next summer and is expected to significantly reduce congestion for vehicles travelling from Zagreb to Pula.

After the opening of the Pelješac Bridge last summer, this is the second-largest project in a state infrastructure investment cycle of more than 500 million euros, said Transportation Minister Oleg Butković. He went on to name other projects that are nearing completion or are upcoming.

"In about 70 days, we will open D-403 in Rijeka, another major road project. We are finishing the motorways to Hungary and Sisak. On September 27, we will sign a contract for the Kozjak Tunnel - another exit for Split Yes, we're digging another tunnel. We've secured 1.35 billion euros to complete the Adriatic-Ionian Corridor,” said Butković.

Croatia has built a road network of highways and motorways connecting all of its counties.

Croatia's efforts have been rewarded with an investment grade credit rating and a positive outlook, says Prime Minister Andrej Plenković.

"We are one small step away from the letter A. This means that our policies on protecting our citizens and our economy in times of crisis and the smart use of a large investment cycle have set us firmly on a course for economic development,” said Plenković.

The company Bina-Istra has a concession agreement for the operation and the expansion of Istrian Y motorway, including the addition of a second tube to the Učka Tunnel. The concession is set to expire in June 2039.