Rila: Tourist Swims in Lake, High Fines Imposed

Another case of rule violation has been registered in Rila National Park – a tourist entered the waters of one of the Seven Rila Lakes.

The incident, which happened a few days ago, was reported by other tourists who contacted the emergency number 112 during the weekend. According to the report, a person was swimming in the "Babreka" lake, disregarding the prohibition.

The director of Rila National Park, Krasimir Andonov, confirmed the incident but emphasized the difficulties in establishing the identity of the offender. "The people who reported it say he was Italian. At the same time, our employee was at Ribno Lake, and by the time he got to "Babreka", there was no one there. It is very difficult to establish a person"s identity if they are a foreigner.", said Andonov. He added that despite numerous reports of such violations, no case of a Bulgarian tourist entering the lakes has been registered this year. "Our statistics also show that foreigners violate the rules and enter the lakes, but we haven"t registered any Bulgarian tourist entering the lakes this year." – noted the director, highlighting the alarming trend.

Unfortunately, the offender has not been sanctioned, as he has not yet been identified. The lack of adequate punishment is causing concern among regular visitors to the Seven Rila Lakes, who are strongly against such actions. According to them, this practice is spreading, threatening the ecological balance of this unique natural reserve. The atmosphere around the lakes is filled with concern in the event of such incidents.

"People generally know that you shouldn"t enter the lakes, but they do it on purpose"

commented Georgi, a tourist, expressing his indignation at the reckless behavior. Another tourist, Sonia, added: "We are absolutely against this, it pollutes the environment. Tourists always come prepared, so I don"t think it"s due to ignorance; it"s probably a lack of control on our part.".

Her words reflect concerns about insufficient control and the need for more effective measures to protect the unique ecosystem of the Seven Rila Lakes.

Dozens of reports of rule violations in the area of the Seven Rila Lakes confirm the seriousness of the problem. Fines for entering the waters of the lakes are significant – from 500 to 5000 leva, but their effectiveness depends on the ability to identify and sanction offenders. This poses a serious challenge to the park for increased control and the effective implementation of existing legal measures to protect the natural wealth.