Belgrade market reconstruction faces criticism over 24 million euro price tag

Belgrade is set to embark on a significant reconstruction of the Kalenić market, a project that has drawn sharp criticism for its estimated 24 million euro price tag. The Center for Local Self-Government (CLS) argues this makes it the most expensive city market reconstruction in Europe, especially since the plan no longer includes an underground garage and multi-level facility that were part of the initial proposal.

"This will cost Belgrade citizens a minimum of 24 million euros, and will essentially bring nothing qualitatively new," stated Nikola Jovanović, director of the CLS. He highlighted that the tender for the project attracted only one bidder, a consortium led by "Jadran," a firm previously involved in costly projects and delays, including the reconstruction of Obrenovačka market and the Belgrade bus station. Jovanović suggested this situation is suspicious and indicative of potential favoritism.

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This will cost Belgrade citizens a minimum of 24 million euros, and will essentially bring nothing qualitatively new.

City officials, however, maintain the modernization will enhance the market's quality, blending tradition with modern living. Marko Stojčić, the chief urban planner, described the project as a complete overhaul, aiming for a contemporary market with designated areas for different product types, akin to international markets. The city believes this will provide better conditions for both vendors and shoppers.

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Regarding Kalenić market, we have had the project for some time. A complete reconstruction of the market in every sense - of the ground layout, the canopy, the shops, and all the facilities located there, so that they can be divided by the type of products sold there, and it will be something that is a modern market, similar to some markets abroad.

The "Kreni-promeni" movement also weighed in, emphasizing the necessity of practical, not just cosmetic, changes. They pointed out the absence of the planned public garage as a major drawback, noting that the underground facility would have significantly eased traffic and logistical issues for shoppers, vendors, and delivery personnel. The group believes the project, while necessary, misses a key opportunity to address pressing practical needs.

Despite the controversy, city authorities are promoting the reconstruction as a way to improve services and create a more modern, functional market space. The project aims to integrate tradition with contemporary lifestyles, promising an enhanced experience for all users.

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The consortium is led by the city authorities' favorite, the company 'Jadran', which also did the excessively expensive reconstruction of Obrenovačka market and is responsible for the delay of the bus station in Belgrade. It is likely that jobs are being arranged for companies in collusion with individuals from the top of this city government.