Zagreb braces for major traffic disruption as ZET strike looms

Zagreb tram

ZAGREB, 27 September 2026 – Zagreb residents have been warned to prepare for major traffic disruption on Monday as workers at public transport operator ZET and Zagreb Holding are expected to go on strike.

Zagreb Mayor Tomislav Tomašević said at a press conference on Sunday that the city expects very limited public transport, or potentially no public transport at all, during the strike.

The biggest traffic congestion is expected between 7am and 9am and again from 3pm to 5pm, when commuters are travelling to and from work, schools and other daily activities.

Tomašević urged residents to remain calm and make alternative travel arrangements in advance.

He called on people to organise shared transport with colleagues, neighbours and friends, particularly encouraging several people to travel together in one car rather than driving separately.

“We expect very, very large traffic jams,” Tomašević said, citing the expected increase in the number of cars if public transport services are disrupted.

He also appealed to residents who are able to offer lifts to people who may need them, particularly older people, pupils and students.

Tomašević also addressed concerns about tensions surrounding the strike, saying that frustration among residents should not lead to abuse of ZET or Zagreb Holding workers.

“I understand the frustration, but insulting ZET or Holding workers is absolutely unacceptable,” he said, while calling for calm and solidarity.

The mayor also advised residents to consider other ways of getting around Zagreb where possible.

He specifically asked those who can avoid using taxis to leave them available for people with greater transport needs.

“If possible, leave taxis for older and sick people, those who need to go to hospital and those who will need them most,” he said.

Tomašević criticised the union leadership, saying he believed the strike was being pursued “at any cost” and that union representatives had not negotiated in good faith.

He also described the decision to proceed with a strike before the completion of arbitration concerning the minimum necessary services as highly irresponsible.

According to Tomašević, responsibility for any potential damage resulting from the strike lies with its organisers rather than individual workers.

The city is therefore preparing for a significant reduction in public transport services and an increase in private vehicle traffic across Zagreb on Monday.

Residents have been urged to plan journeys ahead of time, consider car-sharing or alternative forms of transport, and show solidarity with those who may have fewer options for getting around the city.