Desecration of Bistrička Station: Benjamina Karić Remained Silent on Works at National Monument, Inspection Issued an Administrative Measure

(Patria) - Bistrička Station, one of the most important national monuments in Sarajevo, has become a subject of dispute after works were carried out on the building that compromise the appearance and historical value of this national monument.

Incidentally, the renovated Bistrička Station housed the Mado restaurant, which opened at the end of October 2024, and according to information obtained by Patria, an inspection by the Federal Administration for Inspection Affairs was requested in December due to certain works on the structure itself.

The inspection by the Federal Inspectorate was initiated by the Mayor of Sarajevo, Predrag Puharić, in mid-December, just a few days after he was elected mayor of Sarajevo.

Although the now former mayor, Benjamina Karić, must have been aware of the works on the building, she took no concrete measures to prevent the damage caused to this protected structure.

Puharić requested that the inspection act regarding the illegal construction on the national monument site, as part of the building's outer garden on the southern side was enclosed with glass panels without prior approval.

Response of the Director of FUZIP to Mayor Puharić

Following the inspection carried out on January 15, the lessee was issued an administrative measure in accordance with the law.
As the Mayor of Sarajevo was informed by the Director of FUZIP, Ivana Prvulović, the inspection procedure is ongoing.

National monuments, such as Bistrička Station, hold a special status in the legislation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and must be protected from any works that could jeopardize their historical value. In this case, the question arises as to why such works were permitted and why there was no reaction from the competent institutions, including the city authorities, in a timely manner.

The Federal Administration for Inspection Affairs is obliged to ensure the implementation of the administrative measure, and a check will be carried out to determine whether the lessee has acted in accordance with the measure.