Iliyan Pavlov

Public transport services in Sofia are set to halt for one hour on Friday due to ongoing protests by hundreds of employees and trade unions demanding the implementation of a promised bonus system for workers in municipal transport companies. The protesters are dissatisfied with the failure to introduce the bonus system, which they expected to be in effect since October 1.

The Bulgarian political party "Spasi Sofia" (Save Sofia) has raised concerns about the hygiene practices in Sofia's public transport system, claiming that trams are being cleaned with alcohol (in this case rakia) and personal vacuum cleaners.

The Sofia Municipality has reported an increase in public transport usage, with 19 million more passengers in 2024, translating to about 90,000 additional daily trips, reports Spasi (Save) Sofia. This growth is seen as a success of the municipality's transport policies, aimed at making public transport more appealing.

Sofia Municipality is purchasing 18 new trams, set to operate on lines #20 and #22. This acquisition, announced by Spasi (Save) Sofia, involves an auction of nearly BGN 100 million. The new trams will feature passenger amenities such as air conditioning, low floors, quiet operation, and comfortable lounges.

The Supreme Administrative Court has ruled that the Metropolitan Municipality must terminate the new traffic organization around "Vitosha" Blvd., "Patriarch Eftimii" Blvd., and "Prof. Fritjof Nansen" St.

The Deputy Mayor for Transport of Sofia, Iliyan Pavlov, advocates for an extension of the operating hours of the blue zone for paid parking, suggesting it should be effective beyond its current 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. timeframe on weekdays and Saturdays.

As of today, Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, is rolling out a series of enhancements to its public transportation system, including the launch of a new tram line and improvements to existing services. The upgrades aim to provide residents with more efficient and comfortable commuting options.

The recent implementation of traffic and parking adjustments along key boulevards and streets in Sofia's city center has sparked heated debates and disputes among residents. Notably, alterations on Vitosha, Patriarch Eftimi, and Fritjof Nansen boulevards, including diagonal parking arrangements, have fueled discussions on social media platforms.