Sofia, Bulgaria – The Sofia Metro has marked a historic milestone in 2024, transporting a record 127.2 million passengers, Metropolitan EAD announced. This represents a substantial increase of 33 million passengers compared to 2023, when 94 million people used the service.
The data was released as part of Sofia’s city celebrations, with the National Statistical Institute also sharing graphics on its Facebook page. While the institute’s figures slightly differ, both sources highlight the rapid growth in public transport usage.
Currently, the Sofia Metro network spans 52 kilometers and serves 47 stations. Significant expansion work is ongoing across three major projects, which will collectively add 10 new stations to the network.
Line 3, passing through Slatina, will extend six kilometers and include six stations. It is expected to attract approximately 75,000 additional passengers, with construction currently 35% complete.
The Vladimir Vazov Blvd. Detour project covers three kilometers and will add three stations. Expected to serve over 50,000 new passengers, this project is now 85% complete and on track for timely delivery.
A new station at Pancho Vladigerov Blvd. is part of a future intermodal hub. Projected to serve 12,000 additional passengers, this development has completed roughly 30% of construction work.
By the end of 2027, Sofia Metro is projected to extend to 61 kilometers in length with 57 stations. Metropolitan anticipates that underground transport will account for over 45% of urban mobility, serving more than 650,000 passengers daily.
The metro system currently employs 2,000 staff, including 391 train drivers, and operates 82 trains. The Obelya depot manages 52 four-car trains operating on lines 1, 2, and 4, while the Zemlyanye depot handles 30 three-car trains on Line 3.
Modernization of the fleet is a key priority. By mid-2026, eight new four-car trains from Skoda will replace the oldest Russian models. Additionally, eight Siemens trains have been ordered for Line 3, with the first Skoda train successfully passing acceptance tests in Pilsen, Czech Republic.
Each new train measures 79.1 meters, weighs 116,300 kilograms, and can reach a maximum speed of 90 km/h. Interiors feature a single-space layout with a capacity of 762 passengers, designated areas for people with disabilities, strollers, and bicycles, along with air conditioning and video surveillance systems.
These developments underscore Sofia’s commitment to improving urban mobility while modernizing infrastructure to meet growing demand. The metro’s record ridership reflects the increasing reliance on efficient, safe, and sustainable public transport in the Bulgarian capital.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members