Zagreb installs underground waste containers at Ban Jelačić Square

Five semi‑underground waste containers were installed on Ban Jelačić Square in Zagreb, prompting a temporary suspension of tram service on the square while construction crews worked. The city says the containers will increase capacity, keep the public space neater, reduce odors and operate more quietly than traditional bins.

City spokesperson Dinka Živalj explained that the location was chosen because existing underground utilities and the overhead tram infrastructure left no alternative sites. She confirmed that all required state approvals and heritage‑conservator criteria were met, and noted similar installations exist in other European city squares. The project is part of a wider city programme that has placed 552 underground containers at 184 locations, with works ongoing at 17 more sites, at a total cost of €3.876 million.