Starting December 15th, Bulgaria’s national railway company, BDŽ – Passenger Transport, is launching a revamped train schedule. This update promises notable improvements for passengers, including faster travel times and enhanced connections between various cities.
The new schedule, which has been in advancement for months, incorporates feedback from the public and local authorities. BDŽ held a public discussion period in october, allowing passengers to voice their concerns and suggestions. The company states that many of the changes reflect this direct input, ensuring the schedule better serves the needs of bulgarian commuters.
Improved Efficiency and Connectivity
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The updated schedule maintains the overall volume of train services, utilizing a fleet of 503 trains. This includes 79 express trains (two of which are seasonal),122 passenger trains,and 302 commuter trains. Some services will operate on specific days or times of the year to optimize efficiency and resource allocation.
A key highlight of the changes is the reduced travel time on high-speed trains between Sofia and burgas. Both the morning Sofia-to-Burgas and the afternoon Burgas-to-sofia routes,which utilize the Sub-Balkan railway line,will see noticeable improvements.
Expanded Network and new Connections
The new schedule also introduces several new and improved connections. For example,travelers between Ruse and Burgas will benefit from a faster route with a single transfer at Dabovo station. Similarly, improved connections are being implemented between Ruse and Plovdiv, and between Stara Zagora and Ruse. These enhancements aim to make rail travel more convenient and efficient for passengers across the country.
For those traveling between southern and northern Bulgaria, a new convenient morning connection is being created at Stara Zagora station, linking the morning fast train from Plovdiv to Varna with the morning train from Dimitrovgrad to Gorna Oryahovitsa. This demonstrates BDŽ’s commitment to improving intercity connectivity.
the improvements to Bulgaria’s rail network reflect a broader trend in Europe and worldwide of investing in and modernizing rail infrastructure. This focus on efficient and enduring transportation options is increasingly important as countries look for ways to reduce carbon emissions and improve public transportation.
Bulgaria’s National Railway Announces Summer 2024 schedule
Bulgaria’s national railway company, BDZ, has released its updated summer train schedule, promising improved service and expanded travel options for both domestic and international passengers. The new timetable boasts faster routes, enhanced connections, and the return of popular night trains, making travel across Bulgaria and to neighboring countries more convenient than ever.
A key highlight is the restoration of night trains between Sofia and Burgas, utilizing the Sub-balkan railway line. This popular route provides a convenient option for reaching Bulgaria’s most sought-after summer destination. ”During the next summer season, night trains are again planned to run between Sofia and Burgas via the Sub-Balkan railway line, thus creating another prospect to travel to the busiest and most sought-after summer destination,” the company announced.
International travel is also substantially improved. Direct carriage service between Bulgaria and Romania will continue, with routes connecting Sofia and Bucharest via Gorna Oryahovitsa, and Varna and Bucharest also via Gorna Oryahovitsa.”During the summer period, the movement of direct carriages in the direction Sofia – Gorna Oryahovitsa – Bucharest – Gorna oryahovitsa – Sofia and Varna – Gorna Oryahovitsa - Bucharest – Gorna Oryahovitsa – Varna will be maintained,” BDZ confirmed. An choice route between Sofia and Craiova (Romania) will also be available, utilizing connections at Vidin station.
The new schedule also introduces a high-speed train connecting Dimitrovgrad to Podkova, linking major cities like Sofia, Pazardzhik, and Plovdiv. This daily service will allow for convenient day trips to destinations such as haskovo, Kardzhali, and Momchilgrad, and also areas near the Studen Kladenets dam. the Vidin to Sofia train, previously criticized for its late arrival time, has been adjusted for an earlier departure, improving passenger convenience.
BDZ has taken into account various factors in developing the new timetable, including passenger volume, rolling stock capacity, and ongoing infrastructure improvements. “During the development of the new timetable, the transport scheme and the periods of train movement are taken into account to the maximum extent with the volumes and structure of the transports, as well as with the technical capabilities and capacity of the rolling stock and the railway infrastructure,” the company explained. These improvements include planned repairs to railway infrastructure, modernization of Sofia Central Station, and upgrades to the railway, contact network, and signaling systems at Plovdiv station.
For detailed information on the new schedule, passengers can contact BDZ customer service at 02/931 11 11, visit local railway stations, or consult the online schedule at www.bdz.bg. “BDZ customers can get detailed information about the new Train Schedule from the employees of the ‘Information’ counters and ticket offices in all railway offices and stations in the country, on the national information phone number 02/931 11 11 or from the electronic guide on the official Internet company page: www.bdz.bg.”
Bulgaria’s National Railway Announces Enhanced Summer 2024 Train Schedule
Improved Connectivity and Faster Travel Times On Tap for Bulgarian Railways
Bulgaria’s national railway company, BDZ – Passenger Transport, has unveiled a revamped train schedule set to launch on December 15th, promising enhanced connectivity and faster travel times for passengers across the country and beyond.
A Conversation With Dr. Stefan Ivanov, Transportation Economist
Senior Editor, World Today News: Dr. Ivanov, thank you for joining us today to discuss these exciting changes to Bulgaria’s train schedule.
Dr. Stefan Ivanov: My pleasure. I’m always eager to see progressive developments in transportation infrastructure.
Senior Editor: The new schedule emphasizes faster travel times and improved connections. What are some of the most notable changes for passengers?
Dr. Ivanov: The reduction in travel time on the high-speed trains between Sofia and Burgas is certainly a significant betterment. This will be a boon for both tourism and business travel along this popular route. Additionally, the introduction of new and improved connections between cities like Ruse, Burgas, Plovdiv, and Stara Zagora will make rail travel more convenient and efficient for many Bulgarians.
Senior Editor: The schedule also includes some international route enhancements. Can you elaborate on those?
Dr. Ivanov: Yes, the direct carriage service between Bulgaria and Romania will continue, maintaining key routes between Sofia and Bucharest via Gorna Oryahovitsa, and Varna and Bucharest also via Gorna Oryahovitsa. This demonstrates a commitment to fostering cross-border connectivity within Southeastern Europe.
Senior Editor: BDZ heavily emphasizes passenger feedback in its planning. How does this contribute to the effectiveness of the new schedule?
Dr. Ivanov: engaging the public in the planning process is crucial. By incorporating passenger concerns and suggestions,BDZ can ensure that the schedule truly meets the needs of the people it serves. It demonstrates a customer-centric approach that is vital for sustainable success.
Senior Editor: Looking ahead, what are some of the broader implications of these improvements for Bulgaria’s rail network?
dr.Ivanov: These changes represent a positive step forward in modernizing bulgaria’s rail infrastructure. Efficient and reliable rail transport is essential for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and improved quality of life.I believe these improvements will encourage more people to choose rail travel, leading to a reduction in road congestion and contributing to a greener future for Bulgaria.
