Montenegro has completed a major phase of reconstruction on the Đurđevića Tara bridge ahead of schedule, with the government targeting completion of the overall project before the winter tourism season.
The Transport Ministry confirmed that asphalt works were finished ahead of the planned deadline for the current phase of traffic restrictions. The reconstruction covers the bridge deck, waterproofing and installation of new asphalt, with the remaining works subject to weather conditions and final technical requirements.
The project is being carried out by Chinese contractor Shandong Luqiao Group, with financial support from the Chinese government. The bridge connects the Pljevlja and Žabljak areas and provides an important road link to Durmitor National Park, one of Montenegro’s main mountain tourism destinations.
Reconstruction Supports Northern Montenegro’s Tourism Sector
Reliable access to the bridge is important for tourism businesses in Žabljak, which depend on visitors travelling from other parts of Montenegro and neighbouring markets. Road closures and construction delays can affect visitor flows, increase travel times and raise operating costs for hotels, restaurants and tour operators.
The bridge also supports freight transport and local commercial activity in northern municipalities. Its position above the Tara canyon makes it both a functional transport asset and a recognised tourist attraction, increasing the importance of maintaining its condition. Completion of the reconstruction would improve road access to Žabljak ahead of the winter tourism season, when reliable transport connections are particularly important for the destination.
Chinese Contractors Continue to Participate in Infrastructure Projects
The reconstruction comes amid Montenegro’s wider engagement with China on infrastructure development. Chinese companies have played significant roles in the country’s transport sector, particularly through construction of the first section of the Bar-Boljare motorway.
Montenegro continues to face substantial infrastructure financing requirements across roads, railways, energy and public utilities. Discussions with Chinese officials on broader cooperation have not resulted in a new financing agreement. The bridge reconstruction is an existing project approaching completion, while discussions on future cooperation remain exploratory.
Chinese construction capacity offers Montenegro an option for delivering complex engineering works, although financing terms, debt exposure, procurement arrangements and project governance remain important considerations for major infrastructure schemes.
Completion Target Linked to Final Technical Works
The Đurđevića Tara bridge project focuses on restoring an existing strategic asset, with benefits related to road safety, transport reliability and tourism access. The government expects the reconstruction to be completed once weather conditions permit and the remaining technical works are finished.
