Bulgaria infrastructure declared in ‘Red Code’ due to funding gaps

Minister of Regional Development and Public Works, Ivan Shishkov, has declared a ‘Red Code’ for infrastructure in Northern Bulgaria. The declaration follows revelations that a significant portion of the country’s road infrastructure projects have been awarded without secured financial resources.

Addressing the controversial Hrabrovo–Provadiya road repairs, which triggered local protests, Shishkov stated that funds are only partially secured. He noted that the contractor has committed to finishing the work by the end of this year or early next year, with the government promising payment as funds become available.

Regarding the Topli Dol tunnel on the Hemus motorway, the minister explained that the alternative route has been closed for a year due to a retaining wall at risk of collapse. Repairs for the wall are expected to begin in early 2025 and take approximately one year to complete. To expedite the process, Shishkov has requested that the contractor work in two shifts, with the goal of reopening the tunnel during the Christmas and New Year period.