The Vjesnik is Going to be Demolished, Confirmed Minister Bačić

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Spatial Planning, Construction and State Property Branko Bačić held a meeting with representatives of the City of Zagreb, experts from the Croatian Centre for Earthquake Engineering, and emergency services regarding the fate of the Vjesnik skyscraper.

The meeting confirmed: The Vjesnik is going to be demolished.

Whether the skyscraper will be demolished, renovated, or if a third solution is possible was the key question for those gathered. After the meeting, the minister and structural engineers confirmed that a decision had been made – the building will be removed, reported Index.

Bačić stated after the introductory part that the report from the experts leaves little room for a different decision.

– The report we received can be presented through the conclusion of the Centre for Earthquake Engineering. It is definitely necessary to approach the removal of the Vjesnik structure. This is required due to the danger of collapse and safety, as well as the organization of passages around the entire building – said the minister.

He added that the next steps include the preparation of the demolition project, followed by public procurement, and then the actual work.

Experts: The structure is partially unstable.

Mario Uroš from the Croatian Centre for Earthquake Engineering explained the extent of the damage.

– The removal of the skyscraper needs to happen as soon as possible. All inspections indicate that there are serious static damages in the structure. The structure is partially unstable. The primary reason is the action of fire, the reinforcement has changed, and the columns are damaged – said Uroš.

He emphasized that the eastern part has suffered the most and that the concrete is further cracking due to rain and cold.

– The longer time passes, the greater the danger of collapse – he stated.

When asked about the timelines, he said that the demolition should start as early as possible.

– It should happen as soon as possible. I do not know the legal deadlines, but the sooner the better – he added.

Bačić: Preparations start immediately.

The minister stated that experts will define the technical method of demolition and that it will be checked whether there are domestic or European companies with experience in removing such high, damaged structures.

– Immediately, starting today, we are beginning activities for its removal – he confirmed.

He emphasized that a certain amount of time is needed for design and preparation of the work, so more about the timelines could be known in a few days.

Regarding traffic, he said that the City is working on additional temporary solutions to alleviate congestion while the work is ongoing.