Authorities in Bulgaria are preparing for a major surge in traffic as nearly 100,000 vehicles are expected to depart from Sofia ahead of the Christmas holidays, putting pressure on the country’s busiest motorways.
The heaviest traffic is forecast on the Trakia Motorway, where around 35,000 cars are expected. The Hemus and Struma motorways are each projected to carry about 20,000 vehicles, while the Evropa Motorway could see another 10,000 cars.
The Road Infrastructure Agency (RIA) has urged motorists to remain cautious, drive at safe speeds, and strictly follow traffic rules. Drivers are also reminded to ensure their vehicles are fully prepared for winter conditions.
To ease congestion and improve safety, restrictions on trucks over 12 tons will be enforced on December 23 between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. The ban will apply along the entire Trakia and Struma motorways, as well as on the Hemus Motorway between Sofia and Dermantsi.
According to the agency, the measures aim to facilitate smoother movement for passenger vehicles while reducing risks caused by heavy trucks overtaking or forming long queues during peak travel hours.
Additional restrictions are planned for December 30, again targeting outbound heavy truck traffic between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. On January 4, 2026, restrictions will apply to trucks entering Sofia from noon until 8 p.m.
Certain vehicles will be exempt from the bans. These include public passenger transport, trucks carrying dangerous goods, live animals, perishable or temperature-controlled cargo, and specialized carcass transport vehicles, depending on the specific motorway section.
In the Blagoevgrad district, special traffic arrangements will also be introduced. On December 23 and 24, reverse traffic will operate between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. on the I-1/E-79 road near the Struma Motorway connection and the Simitli junction.
Under the temporary setup, two lanes will carry traffic toward Kulata and one lane toward Sofia. Traffic police will retain the flexibility to modify lane distribution if conditions change.
Road authorities have stressed that winter preparedness remains a top priority. Forecasts are being closely monitored, and teams are ready to respond swiftly to icy or slippery road conditions.
Motorways, high-traffic first- and second-class roads, and mountain passes will receive priority for preventive treatments and snow-clearing operations throughout the holiday period.
Drivers are advised to keep safe distances, avoid sudden maneuvers, and ensure winter tires and equipment are in place. Improperly prepared vehicles risk causing delays or obstructing snow-clearing machinery.
Up-to-date information on road conditions and winter maintenance is available on the RIA website or via its 24-hour Situation Center, which continues to monitor the national road network year-round.