Zagreb Mayor and HDZ Clash Over Sesvete Tram Extension Plan

A dispute has emerged in Zagreb concerning the potential extension of the tram network to Sesvete, a populous district on the city's eastern outskirts. The debate centers on the feasibility and planning of such an expansion, with differing proposals from the city's mayor and opposition representatives.

“

According to the current situation, the tram would go along Zagrebačka, which would mean closing two lanes for road traffic.

Mayor Tomislav Tomašević stated that a tram line along Zagrebačka Avenue, a proposed route, would necessitate the closure of two traffic lanes. He expressed reservations about this plan, suggesting it is not the most sensible approach, especially given the proximity of a faster railway line. Tomašević indicated that the city is focusing on other traffic relief measures, such as improvements to Kolakova and Branimirova streets and the construction of a bypass, which he believes will alleviate current congestion.

“

Why doesn't the new GUP of Sesvete have a tram corridor, and who will take responsibility when such a plan stops the expansion of the tram network in Sesvete?

However, Marko Periša, a representative from the Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ), strongly criticized the exclusion of a dedicated tram corridor from the Sesvete General Urban Plan (GUP). He highlighted that Sesvete is home to 70,000 to 80,000 residents, with a significant number relying on public transport. Periša argued that the mayor's response was evasive and lacked a concrete solution, questioning who would be responsible for hindering the tram network's expansion.

“

The answer is simple – by extending Vukovarska Avenue, with a reservation for a corridor for a future tram line.

Periša proposed extending Vukovarska Avenue and reserving a corridor for a future tram line as a straightforward solution. He countered the mayor's argument about the tram running parallel to the railway, asserting that trams and trains are complementary, not competitive, and together form a robust public transport system. The disagreement underscores the differing visions for Sesvete's urban development and public transportation infrastructure.

“

The claim that a tram makes no sense because it runs parallel to the railway shows a misunderstanding of Sesvete's transport needs. Railways and trams are not competitors; they complement each other and together form a quality public transport system.