Malo Buchino residents threaten Struma motorway blockade

Residents of Malo Buchino are threatening to block the Struma motorway due to persistent noise pollution from cars and heavy trucks. The community reports that noise levels have exceeded legal limits for years, a fact supported by inspections conducted over four years ago.

Local Mayor Vesel Etugov stated that the Road Infrastructure Agency (API) has already conducted a public procurement process and secured funding for noise protection barriers. Despite a contractor being selected and no appeals being filed, construction has not begun. While local authorities were informed in May that a construction permit was expected this year, the project remains in the design phase.

The Road Infrastructure Agency responded that the technical project was accepted with remarks that must be addressed by the contractor before administrative procedures can conclude. The agency noted that temporary noise mitigation measures are not feasible at this time. Residents have set a deadline for the end of the year for the issuance of a construction permit or a formal contract to begin work, failing which they intend to proceed with the blockade.