politics
March 27, 2026
Kitsch, Dangerous, and Too Expensive
The new aesthetic of the capital's center recently includes bollards and chains, metal and wire barriers, "sarcophagi", plastic planters, ties, and flowers planted on medians. It's not only ugly, but also unsafe.
TL;DR
- New urban installations like fences, planters ('sarcophagi'), bollards, and chains are being added to Belgrade's city center.
- These additions are criticized for being unaesthetic, unsafe, and potentially dangerous, especially for emergency services and during protests.
- Traffic engineers and city council members express concerns about the practicality and safety implications of these barriers.
- The cost of these installations is questioned, with suggestions that they are a superficial attempt to create the appearance of progress without substantial investment.
- There are concerns about the lack of transparency regarding the costs and procurement processes for these urban enhancements.
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