Pelješac Bridge Under Control, Cracks Do Not Endanger Drivers

(Patria) - Visible cracks have appeared on some of the concrete pillars of the Pelješac Bridge, opened in July 2022, writes the Italian Il Piccolo, adding that surface cracks on the bridge built by the Chinese company China Road and Bridge Corporation have caused concern among the public, and especially drivers who use the bridge daily to connect southern Dalmatia with the rest of Croatia, bypassing the Neum Corridor. The problem was reportedly noticed a few months ago, the Italians write.

Hrvatske ceste (Croatian Roads), the public company that commissioned the works, states that there is no reason for alarm and that the observed cracks do not pose a danger to traffic. "We can confirm that crossing the bridge poses no danger. We have taken the necessary steps and everything is under control," assure Hrvatske ceste. It has been confirmed that a remediation project is being prepared, but repair works have not yet begun.

They also emphasize that the remediation will not be at the expense of taxpayers. "This is a situation that will not burden Croatian taxpayers. The contractor has provided a 10-year warranty period for the proper functioning of the structure," the statement reads. It is added that China Road and Bridge Corporation has also provided bank guarantees amounting to 10 percent of the bridge's value. "In short, we are covered and waiting for the contractors to do their job," conclude Hrvatske ceste.

The Chinese company will carry out all necessary works, given that the warranty, which began in 2022, expires in 2032. Hrvatske ceste explain that this is a significantly longer period than usual.

"Usually, such a warranty period for construction contracts lasts two years, but for the Pelješac Bridge, the bar has been raised, and quite a bit," they point out. The cost of remediation and the exact start date of the works are not yet known.