Restrictions for Heavy Goods Vehicles during Holidays in 2026

During the holiday period of 2026, the introduction of temporary restrictions on the movement of heavy goods vehicles weighing over 12 tons is planned on key road arteries in the country. The aim of this measure is to improve traffic, increase road safety and reduce the prerequisites for incidents, especially during intensive travel.

The restrictions will be introduced on peak days and times of public holidays, when a large influx of vehicles is expected. The main motorways – “Trakia”, “Hemus” and “Struma”, as well as a section of road I-1 in the Blagoevgrad region will be affected by the measure. This has been reported by sources familiar with the situation.

According to information published for public discussion on the website of the Road Infrastructure Agency, the draft order specifically affects the route of A1 “Trakia”, A2 “Hemus” in the section from Sofia (km 0) to a road connection at a roundabout with road I-4 (87th km), A3 “Struma” and republican road I-1 in the section from the interchange “Simitli” (376th km) to the interchange “Kresna” on A3 “Struma” (402nd km).

Restrictions on heavy goods vehicles are expected to be introduced on certain days and times during 2026. The authorities emphasize that through this organization of traffic, the passage of light and light commercial vehicles will be facilitated during the holidays. In addition, expectations are for a reduction in road accidents.

It is important to note that on the last day off of the holiday periods, the movement of heavy goods vehicles over 12 tons will be restricted only on the highways leading to Sofia. For those leaving the capital, traffic will be free. Exceptions to the ban will be made for road assistance with specialized equipment for the repatriation of all types of vehicles.

On A2 “Hemus” in the section from Sofia (km 0) to a road connection to a roundabout with road I-4 (87th km), on A3 “Struma” and republican road I-1 in the section from the interchange “Simitli” (376th km) to the interchange “Kresna” on A3 “Struma” (402nd km), the restrictions will not apply to vehicles over 12 tons that perform public transport of passengers, as well as to vehicles transporting dangerous goods (ADR), live animals, perishable food products, goods requiring temperature control and specialized pest control trucks.

On A1 “Trakia” there are also exceptions. The restriction does not apply to road vehicles over 12 tons that perform public transport of passengers. In the direction of Sofia, on the highway, the ban does not apply to motor vehicles that transport dangerous goods (ADR) in the section from the interchange “Ihtiman” (34th km) to the interchange “Vakarel” (23rd km).

During the restrictions, which will be in force during peak days and times, drivers of heavy goods vehicles over 12 tons will be able to use alternative routes on the republican road network, adhering to the current permanent traffic organization for them.