Corridor 5C construction halted in Bosnia as contractors suspend works over unpaid debts

According to internal documents obtained by N1, the contractors notified the leadership of Autoceste FBiH that the suspension of works took effect on March 21, 2026. The move follows a prolonged period during which the investor failed to settle matured payments.

"Without the execution of these payments, the contractor is unable to continue work," stated a letter sent by Cengiz representatives to the General Director of Autoceste FBiH, Denis Lasic. The contractor noted they would continue to secure and protect the site in the interim while awaiting specific instructions regarding safety measures during the shutdown.

Reports indicate that Euro-Asfalt also suspended works on Monday on the Putnikovo Brdo – Medakovo section for identical reasons. Sources further claim the company has not been compensated for the Ponirak – Vraca section, despite that specific project being completed.

The liquidity crisis at Autoceste FBiH reportedly stems from a decision by the European Investment Bank (EIB) to freeze infrastructure funding for the public enterprise. This freeze is linked to an ongoing investigation into potential criminal activity within the management of Autoceste FBiH, leaving the state-owned company unable to meet its financial obligations to its primary contractors.