Strumyani continues flood recovery as water and rail issues persist

Ten days after severe flooding in Strumyani, recovery efforts continue to address damaged infrastructure and utility shortages. While major roads and the E-79 highway connecting to the Struma motorway are passable, the village still faces a critical shortage of potable water. The Regional Health Inspectorate has restricted water usage due to contamination, and residents are currently relying on mineral water. The Council of Ministers has released 9,000 liters of water from the state reserve to assist.

Railway services on the Kulata–Sofia line have resumed, but trains are restricted to a maximum speed of 15 km/h across a compromised 1,400-meter section of track. Officials from the National Company Railway Infrastructure noted that the ballast bed requires complete replacement due to debris contamination. Additionally, the railway crossing near the station remains non-functional and is being manually regulated by staff.

Local authorities report that all bridges along the Shashka River are operational and the river has returned to its bed. Cleanup of mud and debris from landslides continues, and disinfection of streets is planned under the supervision of the Regional Health Inspectorate. Mayor Emil Iliev has called for additional volunteers to assist in the full restoration of the community.