Taxi drivers in Sofia have organized a protest at Terminal 2 of Sofia Airport in response to new traffic regulations introduced on January 9, causing potential disruptions to airport access around noon.
The protest is a direct reaction to the changes in the traffic organization, which have sparked significant dissatisfaction within the taxi industry.
The newly implemented rules require all vehicles entering Terminal 2 to pass through barriers that automatically register their license plates. While drivers can park for up to 10 minutes without charge, any subsequent entry within the same hour incurs a fee.
Taxi drivers claim that these restrictions are detrimental to their business, arguing that they result in unnecessary delays and increased costs, which ultimately affect their passengers as well.
Protests have been ongoing since the morning, with representatives from various taxi companies gathering near the barriers to express their concerns.
Among those present at the demonstration was Dimitar Nedyalkov, Deputy Minister of Transport and Communications, who arrived at the scene to meet with the protesters and listen to their grievances.
Krasimir Tsvetkov, a representative from the taxi union, spoke to the crowd, emphasizing the challenges the new system poses to their daily operations.
He noted that the new rules make it difficult for taxi drivers to efficiently serve passengers, as the restrictions add unnecessary hurdles and costs.
“Taxis are an essential part of public transportation and should have unrestricted access to airport terminals,” Tsvetkov stated, underlining the crucial role taxis play in transporting people to and from the airport.
The protest highlights the broader dissatisfaction with the new system within the taxi industry. Drivers argue that the barriers and the associated fees disrupt the smooth flow of services, creating logistical challenges and delays.
Many drivers also expressed frustration over the impact on their passengers, who may experience longer wait times or incur additional costs due to the restrictions.
The new rules were introduced as part of an effort to regulate traffic and manage congestion at the airport, but they have clearly raised concerns within the taxi sector.
The industry’s representatives are calling for changes to the system, asking for greater flexibility and reduced costs for taxi drivers.
They argue that a balance must be struck between efficient traffic management and the needs of those who provide essential services to airport passengers.
Despite the protest, there has been no indication yet whether the Ministry of Transport and Communications plans to amend the regulations in response to the taxi drivers’ concerns.
For now, the demonstration continues as drivers push for a revision of the rules that would allow them to better serve the needs of passengers while maintaining their livelihoods.
The protest at Sofia Airport is expected to create some disruptions in the access to Terminal 2, and travelers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys.
The outcome of the discussions between taxi representatives and government officials could lead to further changes in the airport’s traffic system in the coming days.