Part of the bridge at the Gradiška border crossing between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia collapsed during the night, causing a complete suspension of traffic between the Stara Gradiška crossing on the Croatian side and the Gradiška crossing on the Bosnian side. The damage occurred on the Bosnia and Herzegovina side of the border, affecting the protective fence and part of the bridge structure. Because of the seriousness of the damage, traffic has been stopped in both directions for passenger vehicles, freight vehicles and pedestrians.
According to initial information, no injuries have been reported. The exact circumstances of the collapse are still unknown, and competent services are expected to determine how the damage occurred and when the bridge can again be considered safe for traffic. Local reports stated that the fence and concrete structure collapsed, while police secured the area around the bridge.
The closure of the Gradiška crossing is expected to cause significant disruption because it is one of the more important border crossings between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia. Traffic is being redirected toward other crossings, including Jasenovac, Dubica and Kostajnica. Delays have already been reported at other border points, with waiting times for passenger vehicles estimated at between 10 and 30 minutes. Drivers have been advised to use alternative routes.
The Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina scheduled an extraordinary telephone session to discuss the situation in Gradiška. The session was called to consider measures that would restore the flow of people and goods as quickly as possible and prevent major congestion on alternative routes. Institutions said coordination is ongoing in order to normalize traffic and ensure the safety of all participants. Croatian Roads stated that it expects official and more detailed information from the competent institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina about the type and extent of the bridge damage and the possibility of restoring traffic. The company also said it would inform the public about any further changes in the traffic regime and asked drivers for understanding.
