Bulgarian Villages Endure Six Days Without Power Amid Harsh Winter Conditions

The power outage in various regions of Bulgaria has led to serious concerns and protests from local residents. Many areas, including parts of the Lovech municipality, have experienced days without electricity, with some villages facing up to six days without power. Ignat Ignev, the mayor of Radyuven, called the situation a "crime" and "bordering on genocide," especially given the harsh weather conditions, including 15 cm of snow. Some villages, like Sokolovo, Dabrava, and Tepava, have been without electricity since December 25, severely impacting the residents' daily lives. Many have had to cancel holiday plans, and food products have spoiled due to the lack of refrigeration.

Stratsimir Petkov, the mayor of Lovech, confirmed that over 150 households in twelve villages remain without electricity. While some municipalities like Lovech and Apriltsi had their power restored, several individual homes were still without power. The lack of electricity has led to a water crisis in several settlements, as many rely on pumping stations. In some areas, food and water are being delivered to residents, but the communication with the electricity distribution company has been inadequate, with residents complaining that their calls are not answered.

As a result of these ongoing issues, residents in the Lovech region are organizing protests. On December 30, villagers are expected to block the Sofia-Varna road at the "Ablanitsa" junction for one hour. Their demands include compensation for the affected households and greater investment in the electricity distribution infrastructure. The residents are frustrated, with many pointing out that the company has not invested in necessary updates, including the poor condition of their vehicles. This has made...