Road Infrastructure Agency (RIA) announced extraordinary measures to regulate traffic on the Trakia Highway during critical summer weekends. The special restrictions are aimed at improving traffic flow and road safety during the intensive tourist season.
Specific time frames for heavy vehicles over 12 tons have been precisely determined. On Fridays, the ban will apply between 16:00 and 21:00 hours towards Burgas, in the section from Sofia to Orizovo road junction (from 0th to 165th kilometer). Sunday restrictions are planned from 14:00 to 19:00 hours towards Sofia, between Stara Zagora and the capital (from 208th to 0th kilometer).
An important clarification from experts is that buses, although falling into the category of heavy vehicles, will be exempted from these restrictions. They will be able to pass freely on the highway during the introduced limitations.
The measure is coordinated with the Ministry of Interior (MoI), with the institutions reserving the right to take additional actions to optimize road traffic. The goal is to maximize traffic relief during the summer tourist season.
RIA makes explicit recommendations to drivers to drive extremely responsibly and carefully. Using emergency lanes for personal movement is strictly prohibited, as they must remain free for emergency vehicles in case of potential incidents.
Sanctions for non-compliance with the rules are extremely strict. When driving on the highway's emergency lane, the driver is subject to a fine of 1000 leva and temporary revocation of the driving license for a period of three months.
Full information about alternative routes and details about the introduced restrictions can be found on the official website of the Road Infrastructure Agency.