In recent weeks, the Geological Survey of Slovenia (GeoZS) has been frequently featured in the media regarding the cost estimate for the construction of a parking garage under the central Ljubljana market and the hydrogeological and geotechnical characteristics of the area.  

The role of the GeoZS in this project was limited to the preparation of the study "Comparison of geotechnical and hydrogeological conditions at two selected locations (Tržnica / Grad) for the construction of the MOL garage".  The study was already carried out in 2008, so more than 15 years have passed since this technical basis was created. During this time, GeoZS was not involved in the further phases of the pre-investment studies and in the planning and verification of the hydrogeological and geotechnical characteristics of this project.

GeoZS is a public research institute whose mission is to carry out professional and scientific research tasks in the broad field of geology that provide municipalities with relevant information for the management of natural resources and subsurface and provide expert knowledge for informed decisions. The construction of underground structures, such as garages in Ljubljana and elsewhere in Slovenia, usually involves interventions in deeper geological layers, often below the groundwater level. Such interventions require a comprehensive consideration of the natural conditions and the implementation of appropriate protective measures to prevent possible negative impacts of the natural conditions on the facilities and, conversely, the impact of the facilities on natural resources, ecosystems and neighbouring areas. Such projects require the preparation of studies and plans by experts from various disciplines - civil engineers, geomechanics, engineering geologists, hydrogeologists, geologists, archaeologists, cultural heritage conservation experts and many others. Independent reviews and peer reviews are also involved in the planning and implementation of such projects. However, as we have already noted, GeoZS has not been involved in the planning of the construction of the garage under the central market in Ljubljana for the last 15 years.

GeoZS is involved in many of these projects as part of a professional process, and we are fully committed to professional integrity and accountability to the public.