Autoceste FBiH highway delays stall Zenica–Žepče connection

The planned opening of the 15.3-kilometer Nemila–Zenica sjever highway section, intended to connect Zenica and Žepče via Corridor 5C, is unlikely to occur before the upcoming elections on October 4.

Delays are primarily attributed to the Vranduk–Ponirak sub-section, where the Azerbaijani contractor Azvirt is currently working. Construction progress on this 5.3-kilometer stretch is significantly behind schedule; for instance, a required 32-meter reinforced concrete retaining wall is currently less than half-completed. This specific section was originally slated for completion in August 2021.

The project has been plagued by historical issues, including investigations by the HNK Prosecutor's Office and the POSKOK unit of the Federal Prosecutor's Office. These investigations have focused on allegations of organized crime, abuse of position, and suspicious project modifications under previous management at JP Autoceste FBiH, which led to substantial cost increases.