Zagreb set for major public transport disruption as ZET and Holding workers set to strike

ZAGREB, 26 September 2026 — Zagreb is preparing for a major disruption to public services after unions representing workers at Zagreb Electric Tramway (ZET) and Zagreb Holding confirmed plans for a strike on Monday, 28 September.

The industrial action is expected to begin at 3:30am, following unsuccessful negotiations over new collective agreements and pay.

The dispute could have a significant effect on daily life in the Croatian capital, particularly public transport. Zagreb Mayor Tomislav Tomašević warned on Friday that residents should expect serious disruption if the strike goes ahead.

According to the city, tram services are expected to be particularly affected, while a large proportion of schoolchildren who normally rely on organised public transport could also be left without their usual service.

The unions say their members have given majority support to the strike following the failure of negotiations over new collective agreements.

The dispute centres on employment conditions and wage increases, with unions seeking further improvements for workers. Zagreb Holding has pointed to substantial increases in average net earnings over recent years and says it has offered further pay increases during negotiations.

The company said that average net earnings for Holding workers had increased by approximately 70% over the past five years, with operational employees benefiting from increases to the basic wage and permanent allowances.

The city administration, meanwhile, has questioned the timing of the strike and said arbitration concerning essential services has not yet been completed.

The mayor has urged residents who do not need to travel on Monday to remain at home and make alternative arrangements where possible.

The dispute affects one of Croatia’s largest public-service systems. Zagreb Holding is responsible for a range of municipal services, while ZET operates the capital’s tram and bus network.

For residents, the immediate issue will be transport. Zagreb’s extensive tram network is used daily by commuters, students and visitors, while buses connect the city’s outer neighbourhoods with the centre and transport hubs.

The strike is currently scheduled to begin early Monday morning.

Further developments over the weekend could determine whether an agreement is reached before the planned industrial action.