BDZ new electric trains targeted by vandalism and hygiene issues

New electric trains operated by BDZ Passenger Transport have become targets of vandalism and hygiene issues shortly after their August launch. Graffiti has been reported on the exterior of trains in Blagoevgrad and Pernik.

Internal issues have also been identified, including food waste, spilled liquids, soiled seats, and improper use of toilets. Ivaylo Haralampiev, head of the Security Department at BDZ Passenger Transport, reported that an interior wall was recently defaced with a marker and noted an attempted theft of a glass partition, which could have caused a serious incident if not detected.

Security footage from internal and external cameras has been handed over to the Ministry of Interior to identify those responsible. To manage cleanliness, on-board crews consisting of a manager and two to three conductors monitor passenger behavior and can issue fines of 5 euros for pollution.