HAC installs over 220 gantries across Croatia, with the system expected to go live during 2027. The Director of the Traffic Sector warns that even new technology cannot solve the problem of overburdened roadways.
Croatian motorways will soon get a new toll collection system. Currently, more than 220 gantries are being installed on roads across the country, and Hrvoje Ordulj, Director of the Traffic Sector at HAC, confirmed on HTV's Studio 4 show that the new tolling model could become operational next year.
A large part of the infrastructure is already in place, and according to Ordulj, all gantries should be completed by October this year. "We expect all gantries to be installed by October, and the system could go live during next year," Ordulj stated.
The new system is expected to replace existing toll booths and enable smoother motorway travel, but HAC warns that it will not completely eliminate summer congestion.
Ordulj was clear in his assessment that technology cannot compensate for the physical limitations of roadways. "Regardless of barriers or the new tolling system, traffic will come to a standstill if the load is too heavy," he said.
This statement comes amid the summer season when queues at toll stations, such as those in Lučko, are a regular occurrence, and drivers hope for the relief that the new system might bring.
In addition to the new tolling system, Ordulj announced a series of other infrastructure projects. Among them, the continuation of the Novi Vinodolski bypass and the completion of the Matulji interchange stand out. Particularly significant is the announcement of the imminent connection between Istria and Kvarner.
"We expect that in the first quarter of next year, Istria and Kvarner will be connected by a full motorway profile," Ordulj said. He also added that work on the sections between Križišće, Jadranovo, and Selce will intensify after the tourist season ends.
