Lorries over 12 tonnes will be stopped on the Hemus motorway between the Sofia exit and the Botevgrad junction on Friday 13, Sunday 15 and Monday 16 November. The reason is major repairs to the Topli Dol tunnel, where traffic is already restricted.

The ban covers the stretch from km 0 to km 47. It aims to keep traffic moving and drivers safe.

Today, trucks cannot leave Sofia on the motorway between 3pm and 9pm. On Sunday the ban applies towards Sofia, from 2pm to 9pm. On Monday trucks will be stopped in both directions from 7am to 9am.

If the weather allows, on Friday trucks over 12 tonnes heading for Vratsa, Montana and Vidin can use the Petrohan pass and road II-16 from Sofia through Svoge to Reberkovo. On Sunday trucks travelling towards Sofia can use the same route.

Traffic police can let trucks through before the announced end time if traffic eases. If needed, the authorities can also bring in other traffic controls.

Cars are expected to use both tubes of the tunnel before Christmas and New Year. After the holidays, the Sofia-bound tube will again be restricted while building and installation work continues. That work should finish in April 2027.