In the coming days, drivers traveling on the "Struma" highway will need to comply with temporary traffic restrictions due to planned maintenance activities, announced the "Road Infrastructure" Agency (RIA). The measures are aimed at improving safety and maintaining key sections of the highway.
On the night of August 19-20, from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM the next morning, traffic in the Sofia-bound tube of the "Golemo Buchino" tunnel will be completely suspended. This temporary closure is necessary for thorough cleaning of the facility's walls and road surface. The following night, from August 20-21, during the same time frame, there will again be restrictions in the same tunnel tube, this time for painting the walls.
To minimize the impact on traffic, RIA has planned these activities to be carried out at night when traffic is lighter. During the maintenance work, travelers heading to Sofia will be redirected and will pass through the Kulata-bound tube in both directions.
Additional activities are planned for August 15. RIA informs that between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM, slope shaping will be carried out at the 13th kilometer of the highway towards Sofia. For this purpose, specialized equipment will be placed in the emergency lane, which will lead to some restrictions in passing.
The agency strongly urges all drivers to exercise increased caution in the areas of maintenance activities.
We appeal to drivers to strictly observe the posted road signs, drive carefully, maintain a safe distance, and move at an appropriate speed, RIA officials stated. They emphasize the importance of not undertaking risky overtaking maneuvers that could endanger the safety of all road users.
Additionally, RIA reminds that until August 15, drainage improvement activities continue on the section of the "Struma" highway between the 10th and 37th kilometers in the Pernik region. These works will be carried out daily from 6:30 AM to 4:00 PM, restricting access to the emergency lanes in the 27-kilometer section from the 10th km to the "Dolna Dikanya" road junction (37th km). However, traffic in both directions will proceed normally in the active and fast lanes.
These measures are part of RIA's overall strategy to improve road infrastructure and ensure safer travel conditions on the country's key transport arteries. The agency calls on drivers to plan their trips taking into account the announced restrictions and to exercise patience during the maintenance activities.