Construction minister: Vjesnik building passes safety test after storm and quake

Hina - Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Construction, Physical Planning and State Assets Branko Bačić inspected the fire-ravaged Vjesnik building on Friday, stating that recent works have strengthened its safety and that the skyscraper has "passed its own sort of test."

Bačić noted that overnight Zagreb was hit by storm-force winds and a 2.6-magnitude earthquake, raising concerns over the building's resilience.

He said the past twenty days of work, including removal of façades, glass and aluminium to reduce wind resistance, clearing 65 tonnes of fire-damaged material, and reinforcing critical columns with steel structures, have significantly improved its stability.

"Ten floors, from the lowest to the tenth, have been supported with props, further enhancing stability. The building has passed its own sort of test," Bačić said. He added that once the storm subsides, a minor review will be carried out to accelerate work on reopening Slavonska Avenue.

Bačić also reported that no scaffolding at other Zagreb construction sites has collapsed or suffered major damage, despite some roof damage across the city.

Government and city to repair damage promptly

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Veterans' Affairs Tomo Medved, who chairs the Homeland Security Coordination, said the storm caused extensive damage. Coordination with the City of Zagreb led to the closure of primary and secondary schools to protect children from falling debris.

Medved confirmed contact with emergency medical services and the health minister, with no reports of casualties so far. He said the government, in cooperation with the city and relevant services, will support efforts to repair the damage once the situation is assessed.

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