Sofia ‘closes’ blue and green parking zones in city because of heavy snowfall on February 26
Sofia municipality said on February 26 that the blue and green paid parking zones in the Bulgarian capital were closed for the day because of the severe winter conditions, as heavy snowfall blanketed the city.
The municipality called on residents of the city not to use their private cars, if at all possible.
It said that parking places in front of schools, kindergartens and public buildings would be cleaned, but the heavy snowfalls made it impossible to clean all parking areas.
The system of payment for parking via text message was suspended for the day and parking system staff would not check coupons.
Motorists in Bulgaria were advised that on February 26, there could be difficulties in driving in the country because of the serious winter conditions. There would be temporary closures of roads to enable snow-cleaning machines to operate.
Police called on motorists to avoid embarking on trips unless this was absolutely necessary, and urged them to ensure that their vehicles were properly equipped for the conditions.
Early-morning reports said that there were strong winds in northern and north-eastern Bulgaria, and snow cover ranged from five to 30cm, with temperatures ranging from minus four to minus 15 degrees Celsius.
The movement of heavy goods vehicles was restricted on the Sofia-Botevgrad section of Hemus Motorway. The Troyan – Karnare pass was closed. There were traffic restrictions in both direction on the Rousse – Byala road, and on Trakiya Motorway between Sofia and Pazardzhik.
