Objective assessment of the national road network
The Road Infrastructure Agency (RIA) is introducing a new monitoring system based on objective measurements rather than subjective judgments. The Chairman of the Management Board of the RIA, Eng. Todor Anastasov, presented a specialized map of the road surface condition.
The main criterion for assessment is the evenness of the pavement, which is a key indicator of the road's durability.
Key highlights from the study:
- Methodology: A five-point scale (from "poor" to "excellent") was used through specialized software and equipment.
- Scope: Over 16,000 km of roads and all motorways in the country were measured.
- Results: The best road surface conditions were recorded in the districts of Blagoevgrad, Silistra, and Pazardzhik.
- Need for repair: The roads in the districts of Burgas, Montana, and Vidin are in the worst condition.
Future actions and sanctions
Data from the map will serve as a primary tool in planning budget expenditures for road maintenance for the coming year. Regarding the section between Kostenets, Dolna Banya, and Samokov, prepared for the "Giro d'Italia," the Minister confirmed that sanctions will be imposed on the contractor for poor-quality road markings, and measures are already being taken to rectify them.