Traffic near condemned Vjesnik Tower expected to ease next week

Starting next week, traffic near Zagreb’s Vjesnik Tower is expected to flow more smoothly as demolition of the condemned building continues.

The former landmark, which was severely damaged in a fire last November, is beyond repair and is expected to be fully demolished by early July.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Construction, Physical Planning and State Property Branko Bačić said on Monday that he had “officially informed city authorities that all works and activities related to ensuring the safe use of the Slavonska Avenue underpass had been completed.”

He explained that significant work was required to reach this stage, including site cleanup, the removal of glass and aluminum from the façade, and the reinforcement of support pillars, which were among the most heavily damaged in the fire.

The minister added that the discovery of asbestos on the 16th floor had also unfortunately contributed to the lengthy delay in reopening the vital underpass.