The situation in the Black Sea cities of Burgas, Tsarevo, "Elenite" and "Sveti Vlas" is slowly normalizing after the intense rainfall that hit the area on Friday. However, tension remains high among local residents, who anxiously follow weather forecasts and fear new torrential rains.
The Minister of Regional Development and Public Works, Ivan Ivanov, speaking on bTV, expressed condolences to the families of those who died in the disaster. He stressed that conducting a thorough investigation into the causes of the tragedy is of paramount importance.
"The causes must be established at all costs. It is important to clarify whether there was human intervention and whether the disaster could have been avoided," said Minister Ivanov. The decisiveness in his voice reflected the seriousness of the situation and the determination of the authorities to get to the truth.
According to him, the National Construction Control Directorate (DNCC), the "Road Infrastructure" Agency and the "Bulgarian Water Holding" are already on site and conducting inspections. The teams will analyze not only the scale of the damage, but also whether the municipalities have fulfilled their obligations, including the prescriptions for the removal of illegal buildings.
The Minister reminded that construction permits and the exercise of control over them are within the competence of the municipal authorities. The investigating authorities - the prosecutor's office and the Ministry of Interior - will have to clarify whether someone "earned money to close their eyes". Three pre-trial proceedings have already been initiated, which shows the determination of the judiciary to seek accountability for what happened.
"It is not characteristic of the season for such climatic events to occur, but the institutions must be prepared year-round for all situations. If someone has not cleaned the ravines or has not taken the necessary measures, there must be sanctions," Minister Ivanov categorically stated.
The Regional Governor Vladimir Krumov told the media that even more equipment and volunteers have been deployed on site, who are assisting in the recovery activities. He specified that only citizens who are owners and want to take personal belongings are allowed into the complex. The weather is gloomy, and anxiety is written on people's faces. The constant noise of machines and the work of the rescue teams can be heard.