Road Safety Institute criticizes Ministry over Topli Dol tunnel repairs

The Road Safety Institute (RSI) has issued a public statement questioning the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works regarding the upcoming repairs to the Topli Dol tunnel. Despite the project being planned for two years, the Ministry is reportedly preparing a detour route in only 20 days.

The RSI raised concerns about whether the road through Arabakonak is technically capable of handling the heavy freight traffic expected to be diverted there. The Institute questioned the lack of risk assessment and technical validation for the detour, warning that an unprepared route could increase the risk of serious accidents.

Furthermore, the RSI noted that an alternative route has been closed for a year due to a failing retaining wall, a situation that has been under correspondence since 2024. The Institute stated it will personally monitor construction activities on the Arabakonak detour to ensure safety requirements are met.