The 71st International Cycling Tour of Bulgaria is set to commence on Sunday, August 25, and will run through Thursday, August 29, 2024.
This prestigious event, which attracts top cyclists from around the world, will take place across various regions of Bulgaria, necessitating temporary traffic restrictions on key roadways.
Authorities are urging drivers to adhere to traffic lights, comply with temporary traffic measures, and drive with extra caution to ensure the safety of both cyclists and other road users.
Traffic Restrictions and Safety Measures
To facilitate the smooth progression of the cycling tour and enhance safety, a temporary traffic organization will be put in place on several major roads and sections across Bulgaria.
The Bulgarian Road Infrastructure Agency (RIA) has called for heightened caution from drivers during the event, stressing the importance of observing the temporary traffic rules and adhering to the speed limits on the affected routes.
The temporary traffic measures will be implemented shortly before the cyclists arrive at each section of the route.
The convoy of cyclists will be led by two pilot vehicles, with restricted access in these areas. However, emergency vehicles such as ambulances and fire engines will still have access in case of emergencies.
Drivers are urged to stay informed about the traffic conditions and plan their journeys accordingly to avoid disruptions. To support the public, the RIA will provide real-time information on road conditions through its website and hotline.
Routes and Stages
The cycling tour will cover a variety of challenging terrains, spanning both urban and rural roads. Below is a detailed breakdown of each stage of the event, along with the expected traffic restrictions:
August 25: Stage 1 – Sofia to Troyan
The first stage of the competition will kick off at 1 p.m. on August 25 in Sofia. Cyclists will ride along the Sub-Balkan Road I-6, passing through Pirdop and Karnare before reaching their destination in Troyan.
The route will also include the II-35 road from Karnare to Troyan. As this section is part of a heavily trafficked national road network, drivers should anticipate temporary road closures and slower traffic.
August 26: Stage 2 – Troyan to Kazanlak
The second stage, scheduled for August 26, will begin in Troyan at 2:30 p.m. and conclude in Kazanlak. Cyclists will travel along several secondary roads, including III-357 from Oreshak to Tweeper, and III-3505 from Tutorial to Debnevo.
The route also encompasses II-44 between Sevlievo and Gabrovo, with a stretch along III-5004 leading to the final leg in Kazanlak. Drivers in these areas should be mindful of temporary road closures and diversions.
August 27: Stage 3 – Kazanlak to Burgas
On August 27, the third stage of the tour will see cyclists racing from Kazanlak to Burgas. The stage will start at 12:55 p.m. in Kazanlak and proceed along the Sub-Balkan Road I-6, passing through Sliven and Aytos before reaching Burgas.
This route covers significant portions of the national road network, making it crucial for drivers to stay alert and follow the temporary traffic regulations.
August 28: Stage 4 – Primorsko to Sliven
The fourth stage, taking place on August 28, will begin in Primorsko at 1 p.m. and conclude in Sliven. Cyclists will ride along road II-99 from Primorsko to Burgas and continue on road I-9 through the districts of Kraimorie and Victory in Burgas.
The route will then pass through the third-class road network of Burgas district, covering areas such as Gorno Ezerovo, Bratovo, Ravnets, Trojan, Karano, and Aytos.
Cyclists will also travel along I-6 from Aytos to the junction known as “The Pentacle,” as well as on I-7 and II-48 roads, eventually reaching the city of Sliven.
Given the complexity of this route, drivers in these regions should expect significant traffic disruptions and adjust their travel plans accordingly.
August 29: Stage 5 – Sliven to Gabrovo
The final stage of the tour on August 29 will see cyclists journeying from Sliven to Gabrovo. The race will commence at 1:30 p.m. in Sliven and follow the Sub-Balkan Road I-6 through Kazanlak, before connecting to the I-5 road leading to Gabrovo.
This leg of the tour is expected to generate substantial traffic interruptions, especially on major roads, and drivers are advised to exercise extreme caution.
Public Information and Support
The Bulgarian Road Infrastructure Agency (RIA) has established several channels to provide up-to-date information regarding the cycling tour and its impact on road traffic.
Citizens and transportation companies can access real-time information through the agency’s official website (www.api.bg) and by calling the RIA hotline at 0700 130 20.
The RIA’s Situation Center operates 24/7 throughout the year, continuously monitoring road conditions and gathering data to ensure public safety.
The RIA has also emphasized the importance of road safety during the event. Drivers are reminded to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, avoid risky overtakes, and keep within speed limits.
The agency stresses that all road users must prioritize the safety of the cyclists and their fellow travelers during the tour.
Increased Safety Measures for Cyclists and Drivers
As the event approaches, local authorities are taking additional steps to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
The presence of police and traffic enforcement officers will be heightened along the cycling route, and strict penalties will be imposed for any traffic violations that may endanger the cyclists or other road users.
Emergency services, including ambulances and fire engines, will be on standby in all the affected areas, ready to respond swiftly in case of accidents or medical emergencies.
Authorities have assured the public that the safety of both the participants and the general public remains their top priority.
The 71st International Cycling Tour of Bulgaria is not only a significant sporting event but also a celebration of endurance, skill, and determination.
However, with the excitement comes the responsibility to ensure that all road users remain safe and that the event proceeds smoothly.
As the cycling tour gets underway, drivers are encouraged to stay informed about traffic conditions, plan their journeys carefully, and exercise patience and caution on the roads.
With everyone’s cooperation, the event can be enjoyed safely by all, leaving a lasting positive impact on both the participants and the spectators.