Vjesnik skyscraper to be demolished, a challenge for experts

(Patria) - The Vjesnik skyscraper in Zagreb, which burned down in a fire, will be demolished.

Seven days after the fire, the news of the demolition was confirmed by the relevant minister Branko Bačić and experts from the Croatian Centre for Earthquake Engineering.

However, the question remains how the skyscraper will be demolished. It has been determined that its structure is significantly damaged and that it is at risk of collapse even from strong winds or ground tremors.

'The report that has been published shows that the structure is significantly damaged. This is the result of a week of testing and monitoring that the HCPI has established on the skyscraper's structure, and additional tests have also been conducted, showing that certain columns are also damaged.

Photographs from inside the skyscraper show certain cracks. The reinforcement itself is no longer effective, and tests have also shown that the concrete strength has weakened, and all these are indicators that the skyscraper's structure needs to be removed,' said Tonči Glavinić, State Secretary from the Ministry of Spatial Planning, Construction and State Property, on HRT's show 'U mreži Prvog'.

However, the choice of method and manner of demolition will depend primarily on the condition of the structure, but also on the surrounding environment. Photographs that appeared in the media on Monday show damage to the structure, but it should also be known that the skyscraper is located right next to the busiest street in Zagreb and is surrounded by dense construction.