Large-scale road reconstruction: New routes and improvements in transport infrastructure

The Minister of Regional Development and Public Works, Ivan Ivanov, presented to the media a large-scale transportation modernization plan that covers multiple strategic road directions in Bulgaria. In the coming weeks, significant improvements in road infrastructure are expected, which will ease traffic and increase traveler safety.

A key moment in the plans is the opening of the Mezdra - Botevgrad route, which is scheduled to happen on Thursday. The State Acceptance Commission is currently conducting a final review of construction activities, and Minister Ivanov expressed confidence in a positive assessment. Despite the presence of finishing work and landslides, the section will be opened with a temporary traffic organization.

The expert emphasized that delays in the project are a result of prolonged political instability and frequent changes in management teams. Despite the challenges, the undertaken commitments are being implemented consistently, with traveler safety remaining a priority.

In the context of road network expansion, the ministry plans several important interventions. In the autumn, repair work on the Pleven - Lukovit route is set to start, with the third stage of project approval currently underway. Simultaneously, the Boaza - Dermantsi section of the Hemus Highway is expected to be launched.

Another significant focus is improvements to road junction III-305, which will provide better connectivity between Pleven and Ruse, while also easing traffic in the section between Radomirtsi and Telish, known for numerous incidents.

On July 18, two significant openings are planned - the "Praveshki Hanove" and "Topli Dol" tunnels on the Hemus Highway, which will further improve the highway's capacity during the summer season.

Traffic through Kresna remains a serious challenge, which has increased to 1,600 vehicles daily due to Bulgaria's entry into the Schengen area, compared to a capacity of 800. Minister Ivanov confirmed that the only permanent solution is the construction of the Struma Highway, with the bypass road construction to start this year.

August has been set as the final deadline for securing the 36 high-risk road sections. At the moment, the most critical sections have been completed, and the remaining activities will be finished within the specified period.

In conclusion, the minister emphasized that current efforts are focused on ensuring safe movement for citizens, after years of delay and unfulfilled infrastructure projects.