Works on the Svilaj-Odžak highway in two phases

Having accepted the Information on the dynamics of works on the Svilaj-Odžak highway section, the FBiH Government concluded at today's session that by dividing the works on this section into two phases, its construction will be harmonized with the planned construction of the bridge over the Sava River.

It was stated that this will increase the cost-effectiveness of this section, reports the Patria News Agency.

The Government tasked the Federal Ministry of Transport and Communications to request information from the Ministry of Communications and Transport of BiH and the Council of Ministers of BiH on the start and dynamics of works on the bridge over the Sava River, in order to harmonize the construction works on the Svilaj - Odžak highway section.

The Information adopted today states that the entire Svilaj - Odžak section is directly dependent on the construction of the bridge over the Sava River and the Svilaj Border Crossing, which is not within the jurisdiction of JP Autoceste FBiH. This affects the dynamics, flow, and completion of works. As the start of works on the bridge over the Sava has not yet been defined (according to available information, it is planned for the end of 2015, with completion at the end of 2017), this section itself makes it non-functional for the investor.

The construction of the highway on the Svilaj - Odžak section is most hindered by the fact that the tender procedure for the selection of a contractor for the construction of the Svilaj international bridge has not been completed. Likewise, the construction of the Svilaj Border Crossing to the level of facilities is planned, which faces Autoceste FBiH with the problem that land expropriation has not been carried out and the necessary approvals have not been obtained, which is within the jurisdiction of the Indirect Taxation Authority of BiH.