Third lane for key sections of Croatian motorway

(Photo: Silverije/CC BY-SA 3.0)

Croatia is set to enhance its transport infrastructure with major upgrades to motorways, railways, and the national airline fleet.

Deputy Prime Minister Oleg Butković was a guest on HRT’s Dnevnik where he announced plans to reduce congestion and improve travel efficiency, as well as modernise Croatia Airlines, marking significant progress for the country’s connectivity and transport services.

Motorway Expansions and New Toll Collection System

Butković revealed plans to alleviate congestion on Croatia’s busiest highways by adding a third lane on key sections, particularly towards Karlovac and Bosiljevo, and on the Zagreb bypass.

During the peak summer months those sections can get particularly busy.

He expects the necessary documentation and permits to be ready within a year or so.

Additionally, a new toll collection system is set to be implemented by 2026, funded by €100 million from the National Recovery and Resilience Programme.

This system aims to allow 3,000 vehicles per hour to enter or exit highways, significantly reducing traffic delays.

(Photo: Lan Glad/CC BY-SA 4.0)

Tunnel and Highway Projects

Key projects include opening the second tube of the Učka tunnel in September and completing the highway to Sisak. The Istrian Y highway will be fully finished by 2026, with current works extending 10 km to Matulji. The Kozjak tunnel project is also underway to ease congestion around Split.

Railway Investments

Addressing criticism of Croatia’s rail system, Butković stated that extensive investments are now being made, with over €1.5 billion allocated to railway infrastructure from European funds and loans.

This includes a €900 million state loan to upgrade 500 km of local and regional lines. Completed projects include the Zaprešić-Zabok, Vinkovci-Vukovar, and Savski Marof-Zagreb sections, with ongoing works on Krapina-Zabok and plans for Knin-Zadar.

(Photo credit: Končar)

Future Projects and Funding

Over the next decade, more than €4 billion from European funds will be invested in railways, supplemented by loans from the European Investment Bank. Road projects include new expressways around Split, connecting Požega to the highway, and completing routes to Virovitica and Koprivnica.

Pelješac Bridge Success

Butković highlighted the success of the Pelješac Bridge, marking two years since its opening. The bridge has seen nearly five million vehicles and enhanced connectivity for Korčula and Dubrovnik, necessitating additional ferry services.

Pelješac Bridge

Croatia Airlines Fleet Renewal

Croatia Airlines is undergoing a major fleet renewal, acquiring 15 new Airbus aircraft by 2026, which will reduce costs and improve passenger comfort.

The first new Airbus, named “Zagreb,” is arriving imminently. The government is also seeking a strategic partner for the airline, with potential options including airport mergers or privatisation.

(Photo credit: Croatia Airlines/J. Škof)

These extensive plans signify a significant step forward in enhancing Croatia’s transport infrastructure, improving efficiency and connectivity across the country.