Trakia Motorway Faces Temporary Traffic Restrictions for Repairs
Drivers traveling on the Trakia Motorway, a key route connecting Sofia and Plovdiv, should prepare for temporary traffic disruptions this week. The Road Infrastructure Agency has announced scheduled repairs that will impact traffic flow in two separate sections of the motorway.
On January 30, from 11 am to 2 pm, all vehicles heading toward Sofia will face restrictions on a 12-kilometer stretch of the motorway near Ihtiman (from the 46th to the 34th kilometer). The closure is necessary for the replacement of portal frames and signs,essential components for maintaining road safety and navigation. During this time, drivers will be redirected to road I-8 Sofia-Plovdiv, an choice route that will help mitigate congestion.
A second round of restrictions is planned for february 4, also from 11 am to 2 pm. This time, the 18-kilometer section of the Trakia Motorway within the Sofia District (from the 5th to the 23rd kilometer) will be closed to all vehicles traveling toward Plovdiv. Similar to the previous closure, this disruption is for the replacement of frames and signs, with traffic being rerouted to road I-8 Sofia-Plovdiv.
The Road Infrastructure Agency has emphasized the importance of driver caution during these periods. “Drivers are urged to travel carefully, follow the strictly placed road signaling, observe the distance, and avoid taking risks to ensure the safety of other travelers,” the agency stated.
These repairs come amid ongoing concerns about the condition of the Trakia Motorway, which has been described as being in critical condition due to safety violations and frequent accidents. As a notable example, the section between Ihtiman and Plovdiv has seen over 1,000 road accidents in recent years, with guardrails broken in more than 50 places.
To help drivers navigate these changes,here’s a summary of the upcoming traffic restrictions:
| Date | time | Affected Section | Direction | Alternative Route |
|—————–|—————-|——————————-|——————–|—————————–|
| January 30 | 11 am – 2 pm | Ihtiman (46th – 34th km) | Toward Sofia | Road I-8 Sofia-Plovdiv |
| February 4 | 11 am – 2 pm | Sofia District (5th – 23rd km)| toward Plovdiv | Road I-8 Sofia-Plovdiv |
Drivers are encouraged to plan their journeys accordingly and stay updated on real-time traffic conditions through platforms like ViaMichelin,which provides live updates on traffic jams,accidents,and roadworks.
These repairs are a crucial step toward improving the safety and functionality of the Trakia Motorway, a vital artery for Bulgaria’s transportation network. By adhering to the guidelines and staying informed, drivers can help ensure a smoother and safer travel experience for everyone.
