In the heart of Zagreb’s central district, near the main train station and the prestigious Esplanade Hotel, a scene of neglect has unfolded along Koturaška Street. There, three taxi drivers were observed having breakfast on the edge of a neglected plot of land before turning toward the bushes and urinating. The remnants of their meal ended up on the ground where, according to recent announcements, a modern office space was once planned to rise. This image, though shocking, is not confined to the outskirts of the city, it is part of the urban fabric of Zagreb's core, just minutes away from the botanical garden, the city hall, and other landmarks. The street, which lies at the crossroads of several major thoroughfares, appears to have been abandoned by both public and private entities. According to the cadastral records, parcels adjacent to the southern side of Koturaška belong to the Republic of Croatia, the City of Zagreb, private individuals, and companies. Yet, many of these spaces look unclaimed, with some observers describing the situation as “a pocket of the world.” The area is marked by rusting fences, overgrown plots, collapsed houses, and vegetation that encroaches upon the narrow sidewalk. On one side of the street, there is a railway track and a concrete wall, while on the other, deteriorated fencing, overgrown plots, and ruins dominate the view. A key element of this urban decay is the lack of coordination between public and private property management. In the past, efforts were made to improve pedestrian access by shifting the sidewalk to the south side of the street. The logic was simple, create more space for cars, cyclists, and pedestrians. However, the implementation has led to further complications. While bike lanes have been moved onto the road, pedestrians now face even fewer options. Where sidewalks exist, they are often obstructed by branches, shrubs, and debris from neglected properties. At times, crossing the street requires navigating around broken fences, holes, waste, and cyclists who return to the sidewalk despite feeling unsafe on the road. As a result, the street, a place that was meant to be well-organized, has become a series of improvised obstacles. Further down the street, the condition worsens. A parking lot owned by the state, marked with the name Čazmatrans, sits alongside a small landfill for bulky waste. Though not perfectly maintained, the site avoids directly endangering pedestrians. But beyond this brief respite, the situation deteriorates again. Parking lots belonging to buildings appear orderly and accessible, yet this impression lasts only briefly. Soon after, the street enters an area where multiple parcels are in the possession of private owners, including some who are Croatian expatriates living in Argentina. Here, the sidewalk is flanked by rusted fencing, through which branches extend into the street. Inside the courtyards, old boilers, rotting wooden stairs, discarded windows, and objects clearly left behind from yesterday can be seen. This section of Koturaška is not merely an aesthetic issue. It represents a deeper systemic failure. The problem is not simply about grass being too high or fencing not being painted. Rather, it is about how the neglect of both public and private lands spills over onto the shared public space. The sidewalk becomes narrower, pedestrians must detour, cyclists retreat from the road, and the street, once intended as a well-organized traffic corridor beside the railway, now resembles a collection of makeshift barriers. Amidst this landscape of disrepair, one exception stands out. An active auto repair shop, its fence well-maintained and its space neatly arranged, offers a rare glimpse of order. However, even this tidiness seems fragile, surrounded by the same decay that defines much of the rest of the street. Just beyond it, two parcels owned by the City of Zagreb, totaling 3,644 square meters, lie in a state of dereliction. These areas feature collapsed houses whose wooden structures are visibly deteriorating. The contrast between this isolated example of maintenance and the surrounding neglect underscores the broader issues facing the city. Meanwhile, local representatives have voiced concerns over the growing crisis in infrastructure and urban planning. Club Drito, a group of municipal deputies, criticized the city government for failing to deliver on promises and for creating a pattern of excuses and empty assurances. They pointed to the lack of coordination, delays in projects, and the ongoing neglect of public infrastructure, all of which have contributed to a chaotic environment. One representative highlighted the situation on Trešnjevci, where streets such as Brloška and Kostelska have remained excavated and abandoned for months. Another noted the large hole at the intersection of Krapinska, Trakošćanska, and Ozaljska streets, where pedestrians and vehicles alike navigate dangerous conditions. The criticism extended to the management of critical facilities, such as the Bus Terminal. Reports indicated that glass had fallen on the platform during peak hours, injuring passengers. Representatives argued that this was not an isolated incident but rather a consequence of years of neglect in maintenance and oversight. They emphasized that the terminal, nearly forty years old and never fully renovated, required regular inspections, which had been conducted only once in the last five years, and even then, only partially. The repeated failures in infrastructure management have raised questions about the quality of life in Zagreb, especially given the increase in tax revenue under the current administration. Additionally, officials have drawn attention to the treatment of entrepreneurs and craftsmen, who contribute significantly to the city budget but face increasing administrative pressures. Some have pointed out that fixed water costs for certain businesses have risen fourfold overnight, raising concerns about transparency and fairness. Others have suggested that the city’s new management strategy, known as the Zagreb Destination Management Plan, has implicitly shifted responsibility for communal and housing problems onto private operators, despite the city’s inability to address them effectively. As the summer season approaches, calls for action grow louder. Deputies have urged the city to take steps to improve waste management, particularly regarding mixed household and bulky waste, which should be collected at least twice a week. Despite the availability of storage containers, many sites remain overflowing. The debate continues over whether the city will finally prioritize the well-being of its citizens or continue to operate under a cycle of promises and delays. For now, the streets of Zagreb remain a reflection of a city caught between aspiration and reality.
9 reports
Index.hrIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 9016 days agoThe city of Zagreb has completed the greening of 14 residential courtyards as part of an initiative aimed at transforming previously concrete or neglected spaces into green areas for residents. The project, led by Mayor Tomislav Tomašević and his deputies, includes both a pilot phase in 2025 and ongoing work under the European Union-funded ActGREEN project. The initiative focuses on increasing urban greenery, reducing heat islands, improving air quality, and enhancing the living environment. It has received funding from the EU and was recognized with an award for innovation and sustainability. The project also aligns with broader urban renewal efforts in Zagreb, including facade restoration, graffiti removal, and pedestrian zone expansion.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the greening initiative as a municipal effort with positive outcomes, emphasizing collaboration between local authorities and institutions like the Faculty of Agriculture and the Association ODRAZ. While the project is described as innovative and aligned with European trends, it
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): Well-researched article with detailed information about green courtyard projects. The tone is positive but remains objective.
Jutarnji listIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 9517 days agoThe article reports on a new traffic infrastructure project in Zagreb, specifically the installation of a traffic light intersection at the junction of Roberta Fargaša Mihanovića Street and Zagrebačka Avenue. The decision was made on June 11th and announced on June 30th, with construction company Bolčević-gradnja selected due to its economically favorable offer of €291,622, compared to Šušković-gradnje’s more expensive bid. The project aims to allow left turns from the north towards the east, enabling an additional 99 vehicles per hour without negatively impacting traffic flow on Zagrebačka Avenue. Work was initially planned for summer 2025 but was delayed until late December 2025. The new traffic lights will include modern equipment such as cameras and sensors, and additional roadworks will remove a green island and part of a divider to create space for a new lane.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the traffic infrastructure project as a technical and logistical update without overt ideological framing. It focuses on the economic aspects of the tender process, the expected traffic benefits, and the technical specifications of the new traffic signals. There is no clear left
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 95): The article provides detailed information about the new traffic signalized intersection on Zagrebačka Avenija, including the winning bidder, cost estimates, and expected impact on traffic flow. The presentation is neutral and factual, with no apparent bias or emotional language.
Jutarnji listIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8515 days ago In Zagreb, they presented a project of green yards.The article reports on the presentation of the ActGREEN project in Zagreb, which aims to green city courtyards to achieve carbon neutrality. The mayor, Tomislav Tomašević, highlighted that the project has been funded by 75% from EU funds and that 14 courtyards have already been greening. He noted national recognition of the initiative and visits from other European city mayors interested in replicating the model. The newly completed courtyard at Zvonimirovo 13 was showcased, featuring removed concrete surfaces, new plantings, paths, solar lighting, and preserved existing vegetation. Residents expressed appreciation for the transformation, emphasizing their desire for a green oasis rather than concrete or parking spaces. The article also mentions ongoing efforts to revitalize inner-city areas, including facade renovations, graffiti removal, and planned pedestrian zone expansions based on resident feedback.
Bias read (Center): The article presents information about a municipal environmental initiative without overtly promoting or criticizing any political ideology. It focuses on factual updates about the project’s progress, funding, and community engagement, with balanced reporting on both the city’s actions and residents
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): Accurate reporting on traffic changes and construction at a major intersection. The tone is neutral and informative.
Večernji listIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8517 days agoThe article reports on the state of Zagreb’s Hippodrome one year after the Thompson concert held there. It notes that over 504,000 people attended the event, with 485,430 tickets sold. The venue underwent several months of cleaning to restore it to its original condition. Marko Ulaga, president of the Zagreb Equestrian Society, warned that the construction infrastructure used for the concert caused mechanical instability in the soil across all three tracks, making the areas currently unusable. The article includes photos showing the current state of the Hippodrome.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the aftermath of the Thompson concert at the Hippodrome, focusing on logistical and structural issues without overtly criticizing or praising any political entity. While the topic relates to public infrastructure and management, which can have political
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): The article discusses the state of the Hippodrome one year after Thompson's concert, citing attendance figures and quotes from officials. The information is factual and well-supported, though the focus on the negative aspects of the site's condition may slightly skew the overall tone.
Novi listIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 8018 days agoThe article discusses planned infrastructure construction in Rijeka, Croatia, centered around Školjić Street and its surrounding area. The project, part of the 'Aglomeracija Rijeka' initiative, involves building water management infrastructure, including a large retention basin and rainwater overflow system. These works will take place over nearly a year, starting in mid-July 2024 and ending in April 2025. During this time, significant portions of Školjić Street and parts of the nearby parking lot will be closed, leading to increased traffic congestion and difficulties for local residents who already struggle with finding parking spaces. The temporary road solution includes converting part of Školjić Street into a two-way dead-end street, which will further complicate access to residential and commercial areas. Local officials and representatives from various companies involved in the project presented plans at a meeting organized by the local council. Residents expressed concerns about the disruption caused by the construction and have called for daily presence of traffic wardens to address ongoing issues with illegal parking in the area.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a factual overview of infrastructure planning and its impact on local communities without overtly favoring any political stance. It reports on the challenges faced by residents due to construction but does not frame the issue in a biased manner. The tone remains neutral, and the
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 80): The article describes upcoming construction work on Ulica Školjić in Rijeka and its potential impact on local residents. While the facts are presented accurately, the tone is somewhat negative, emphasizing the inconvenience caused by the construction without offering a balanced view of the project's
N1 HrvatskaIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 7512 days agoThe article reports on criticism from Zagreb city representatives regarding the city's management and infrastructure issues. The Club of City Deputies, led by Dragana Turkalj, accused the city authorities of failing to deliver on promises, resulting in traffic chaos and poor coordination. Mislav Krasić highlighted problems at construction sites where work has stalled despite projects being completed, citing specific examples like Trešnjevci and Krapinska intersection. He questioned the lack of progress and safety measures. Eliška Djokićova pointed out maintenance neglect at the Bus Terminal, noting that structural inspections were infrequent and incomplete. Milka Rimac Bilušić criticized the current administration's handling of budget execution, calling Zagreb a city of excuses and promises, and noted that Mayor Tomislav Tomašević still acts as if he had just taken office.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the criticism of Zagreb's governance as a systemic failure, emphasizing negligence, lack of accountability, and poor urban planning. It highlights the frustration of local representatives with the city's performance, using strong language such as 'grad isprika i praznih obećanja'—
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 75): The article presents statements from Drito members criticizing the city government's management and infrastructure issues. While these are factual accounts of their concerns, the tone is clearly critical and lacks balance by not presenting counterpoints from the city administration.
Jutarnji listIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 708 days ago Taxi drivers urinating in bushes, pedestrians breaking through fencing: This is the street outside an elite hotelThe article describes the deteriorating condition of Koturaška Street in central Zagreb, highlighting the contrast between the city's urban development efforts and the neglect of certain areas. It notes that taxi drivers urinate in bushes and pedestrians struggle through overgrown vegetation and debris, despite recent infrastructure improvements aimed at improving pedestrian access. The street runs close to major landmarks like the main train station, Hotel Esplanade, and the City Hall. The area includes land owned by the state, the city, private individuals, and companies, but many parcels appear abandoned or neglected. The article discusses past planning decisions, such as shifting the sidewalk to the southern side of the street to accommodate more space for vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians, yet the implementation has led to new challenges, including unsafe conditions for pedestrians. Some areas have poorly maintained waste disposal sites and unregulated dumping, raising questions about legality and responsibility.
Bias read (Center): While the article addresses issues related to urban governance and municipal responsibility, it does not overtly favor any particular political ideology or party. The focus is on describing the physical and administrative state of the area rather than taking a clear ideological stance. The tone is客观
Why factuality (85): The article describes the state of Koturaška street in Zagreb, including the actions of taxi drivers and the condition of the land around the Esplanade Hotel. It references the planned development of office spaces and mentions ownership details from the cadastral records. While there is no primary s
Why objectivity (70): The tone is somewhat descriptive but includes emotionally charged phrases such as 'zapuštene parcele' and 'pupkom svijeta,' which suggest a critical view of the situation. The article frames the area as neglected and underdeveloped, potentially influencing the reader's perception. There is a focus o
HRT (Hrvatska radiotelevizija)State / PublicProgressiveFactual 80Objective 6512 days agoThe club of city representatives Drito criticized the last session of the City Council before summer break, stating that Zagreb has become a city of excuses and empty promises. The session failed to address key issues, resulting in traffic chaos and poor coordination due to lack of progress on infrastructure projects. Representative Mislav Krasić highlighted ongoing construction sites with no visible workers or progress, citing specific examples like Trešnjevci and Krapinska intersection. He questioned the management model leading to frequent road closures and safety concerns. Representative Eliška Djokićova pointed out the deteriorating condition of the Bus Terminal, noting that despite legal requirements for structural inspections, only partial checks were conducted over five years. City representative Milka Rimac Bilušić stated that discussions on budget implementation revealed how the current administration manages Zagreb, calling it a city of excuses and promises, and noted that mayor Tomislav Tomašević still acts as if he had just taken office.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the criticism of Zagreb's governance as a systemic failure rooted in negligence and mismanagement, aligning with left-wing critiques of bureaucratic inefficiency and lack of accountability. It emphasizes the negative impact on citizens' daily lives and calls for more responsible,務
Why factuality (80): The article discusses the political critique of Zagreb's management, citing specific examples like roadworks and infrastructure issues. It references a conference and quotes officials, but does not provide detailed statistics or primary source documents. The information is consistent with the first
Why objectivity (65): The language has a clear political tone, criticizing the city's management and highlighting failures. This reflects a partisan viewpoint favoring the Drito party, making it less objective than the first article.
HRT (Hrvatska radiotelevizija)State / PublicCenterFactual 50Objective 5016 days ago Work at Zagreb's busiest intersectionThe article reports on roadworks being conducted at Zagreb's busiest intersection. The project aims to improve traffic flow and safety in one of the city's most congested areas. Construction work has begun, which is expected to impact local traffic patterns during the completion period. Authorities have indicated that the infrastructure upgrades are part of broader efforts to modernize Zagreb's transportation network.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about ongoing construction work without overtly favoring any political stance. It focuses on the practical implications of the project rather than taking a position on its political significance or funding sources.
Why these scores (Factual 50 · Objective 50): The article title mentions 'radovi na najprometnijem zagrebačkom križanju' but contains no further details. With minimal content, it is difficult to assess both factual accuracy and objectivity.
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