A massive demonstration unfolded on the “Trakia” highway near Plovdiv on Thursday, as more than 1,200 taxis created a blockade at the 121st kilometer. The protest, organized by taxi drivers from over 50 cities across Bulgaria, was aimed at voicing their frustration over a steep increase in mandatory “Civil Liability” insurance costs.
The protest, part of a nationwide movement, caused significant disruptions to traffic on one of Bulgaria’s busiest highways. Protesters warned they might stay on the highway for hours, escalating their efforts to draw attention to their grievances.
Unified Stand Against Rising Costs
Taxi drivers claim the recent insurance hikes, which have seen premiums soar by up to 50% in some cases, are unsustainable for their industry. The mandatory “Civil Liability” insurance, which all vehicles must carry, has become a major financial burden for drivers already grappling with high fuel prices and vehicle maintenance costs.
Speaking to reporters at the protest site, Ivan Petrov, a spokesperson for the National Taxi Drivers’ Association, said:
“The increase in insurance costs is pushing many of us to the brink of bankruptcy. We are not just fighting for ourselves but for the survival of the taxi industry in Bulgaria. Without immediate government intervention, we fear that thousands of drivers will be forced out of work.”
Impact on Traffic and Commuters
The blockade caused extensive delays along the “Trakia” highway, with vehicles backed up for several kilometers. Many travelers were forced to take detours or endure long waits as the protest persisted.
Authorities deployed police to the area in an attempt to manage the situation and redirect traffic. However, tensions rose as drivers refused to move, insisting their demands must be addressed before they leave the highway.
Local residents expressed mixed reactions to the protest. While some sympathized with the drivers’ plight, others voiced frustration over the disruptions. “I understand their concerns, but blocking the highway is not the right way to solve this,” said one commuter stranded on the road.
Calls for Government Action
Taxi drivers have called on the government to regulate insurance rates and provide support for their industry. Protesters are demanding a rollback of the insurance price hikes or the introduction of subsidies to offset the increased costs.
In response, officials from the Ministry of Transport and Communications have acknowledged the drivers’ concerns but urged them to find alternative means of protest. A ministry spokesperson stated:
“We are aware of the challenges facing the taxi industry and are in discussions with insurance companies to find a solution that balances the interests of all stakeholders. However, blocking highways disrupts public order and cannot be condoned.”
Protests to Continue
The demonstration near Plovdiv marks the latest in a series of protests by taxi drivers across Bulgaria. Organizers have warned that further actions, including blockades in other major cities, could follow if their demands are not met.
As of Thursday evening, drivers remained stationed on the highway, vowing to continue their demonstration until tangible progress is made. The protest serves as a stark reminder of the growing tensions between labor groups and policymakers over rising costs and economic pressures.