Despite a €5.4 million renovation completed in late 2023, Belgrade’s Nikola Pašić Square remains plagued by unresolved issues. Originally set for 210 days, the reconstruction stretched to 285 days, with ongoing work even after its official opening. The previously functional fountain no longer works, the new fountain leaks onto concrete, and benches were only recently secured for safe public use.
Geologist Zoran Đajić told New Economy that the project raises serious concerns about potential corruption. He criticized the decision to use expensive imported stone—particularly from Italy—instead of more affordable and superior domestic options. He cited examples such as Bukovica granite from Bukulja Mountain, which would have been a better environmental and financial choice.
Đajić also questioned why the fully functional original fountain was dismantled at all. He claims that unnecessary interventions and use of inappropriate materials have turned the fountain into a stagnant water source that poses health risks. “There was no professional reason to alter the fountain. It’s just another way to inflate costs,” he said.
He further condemned Belgrade’s recent urban planning decisions as damaging to its cultural heritage. When Roman fortifications were discovered during Republic Square renovations, instead of showcasing them, authorities allegedly concealed the ruins under granite slabs. Đajić blamed city officials—past and present—for prioritizing personal or political gain over preservation and public interest.
Despite no immediate threats to public safety in the case of Nikola Pašić Square, Đajić warned that systemic corruption continues to erode the city’s cultural identity and burden citizens with unnecessary expenses.
