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2 clusters · 4 sources · 13 days · First seen · Last updated

Topli Dol tunnel repairs on Hemus Motorway

Overview

Starting October 12, 2026, new traffic regulations were implemented at the Topli Dol Tunnel on the Hemus Motorway due to repairs on the Sofia-bound tube. All vehicles are diverted to two-way traffic through the Varna-bound tube with a 50 km/h speed limit and no emergency lane. While temporary two-way traffic in both tubes is expected around December 18 to assist holiday travel, full construction is not projected for completion until April 2027.

The Road Safety Institute (RSI) has criticized the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works regarding these repairs. The RSI expressed concerns over the technical capacity of the Arabakonak detour to handle heavy freight traffic and noted a lack of risk assessment. Additionally, the Institute highlighted that an alternative route has remained closed for a year due to a failing retaining wall, a matter reportedly under correspondence since 2024.

Entities

Topli Dol Tunnel · Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works · Road Safety Institute · Arabakonak · Road Infrastructure Agency

Timeline

  1. [POLITICS] 2 sources
    Road Safety Institute criticizes Ministry over Topli Dol tunnel repairs

    The Road Safety Institute has criticized the Bulgarian Ministry of Regional Development for the last-minute preparation of a detour for the Topli Dol tunnel repairs, citing potential safety risks.

  2. [INTERNATIONAL] 2 sources
    Hemus Motorway: New traffic rules at Topli Dol Tunnel from October 12

    New traffic restrictions at the Topli Dol Tunnel on the Hemus Motorway begin October 12, featuring two-way traffic and a 50 km/h speed limit due to ongoing repairs.

Sources

e-79.com · fakti.bg · novini247.com · safenews.bg