Deputy Minister Staykov presented a vision for the development of major road projects to the Sofia Economic Forum
Deputy Minister Staykov presented a vision for the development of major road projects to the Sofia Economic Fo
By Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works
“Our projects for this year are ambitious. We would like to create a three-year programme for the infrastructure projects, to start designing and to implement all the procedures we need.” This is what Deputy Minister of Regional Development and Public Works engineer Ivaylo Staykov told the participants in the Sofia Economic Forum. He took part in the panel “Large infrastructure projects”.
“Corridor IV “Orient/Eastern Mediterranean” is of major importance. The section from Blagoevgrad to Simitli on the Struma motorway is currently being completed. In case of good weather and full mobilization of the builder there is a possibility to complete the construction works by the end of the year”, the Deputy Minister said.
“The issue with the Kresna George is important. We have an environmental concern. We would like to take the views of all stakeholders,” said engineer Staykov. He explained that given the procedures currently underway, he could not commit to a route option and a timeframe for when construction might begin.
Deputy Minister Staykov informed that about 85 km of the total 190 km of the Vidin - Botevgrad road are under construction. This year it is planned to issue construction permits for other sections, which will provide a front for construction of approximately 70% of it.
The construction of a tunnel through the Petrohan Pass in the Balkan Mountains is crucial for connectivity along this transport corridor. Both a road and railway solution can be implemented there, he also pointed out.
The Deputy Regional Minister added that the design of the section between Dupnitsa and Gyueshevo along the route of Pan-European Transport Corridor VIII will be commissioned.
Engineer Staykov explained that an important project for the north-south connectivity is the Ruse - Makaza route. Procedures have been launched for the Ruse - Veliko Tarnovo motorway. Contracts have been signed for the Ruse - Byala sections and the Bypass of Byala.
