Vjesnik building to be demolished

Zagreb’s Vjesnik building will have to be torn down, structural experts have concluded. After days of inspections and analysis, engineers determined that the fire-damaged tower is unsafe and at risk of collapse, recommending that demolition begin as soon as possible.

Construction Minister Branko Bačić said a decision on the safest demolition method is expected by the end of the week.

“We definitely have to demolish the building because there is a chance it could collapse, which endangers pedestrians and traffic around the structure,” Bačić told reporters at a press conference in Zagreb on Monday. “We have to sit down with the experts who can guide us on the most effective method to raze the building.”

Prof. Mario Uroš of the Faculty of Civil Engineering in Zagreb said the structure suffered extensive damage that makes it unsafe.

“Extended exposure to fire causes reinforced concrete to lose its basic properties, with the metal reinforcement becoming ineffective,” he explained. “It’s a tall building, and the fire affected the lower floors as well, compromising its load-bearing capacity.”

Police are hoping to enter the site soon to collect evidence for their arson investigation. Two 18-year-olds remain in custody on suspicion of setting the fire.