Record Winter Tourism Numbers Reported in Bansko
Bansko, Bulgaria's premier mountain resort, experienced a surge in winter tourism, with more than 190,000 visitors flocking to its slopes during the season
Scores of Bulgarian citizens have gathered with candles in front of the Ministry of Environment in Sofia Monday evening to show their concern over possible development in the Pirin National Park.
Tuesday the ministry will consider a petition by residents of Bansko, Bulgaria's top winter resort, for an expansion of ski facilities and hotels in the area of the national park.
The proposals will touch close to 65% of the park's area, say environmentalists, who believe that Bansko is already overdeveloped.
Citizens have been long critical of wanton construction in Bansko and the illicit practices of local ski operator Yulen, which has been found to use considerably more land in the protected area than allowed by the government.
Top Bulgarian politicians and persons of state from the ruling GERB party have not hidden their sympathies for the expansion of facilities in Bansko.
At the same time as the vigil Monday, thousands gathered in the center of Sofia to protest ongoing economic stagnation in the country and to call for the resignation of Bulgarian PM Boyko Borisov.
Protesters have raised slogans against high prices, low wages, and a perception of implication of those in power with murky economic structures.
Environmentally-concerned citizens have been long drawing attention to Borisov's close relations with Tseko Minev, president of the Bulgarian Ski Federation, who is known to control First Investment Bank, as well as ski operators Yulen and Vitosha Ski.
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Overnight, cloud cover will disperse and decrease to mostly clear skies across the western half of the country, while rain will persist in the eastern regions
Over the next 24 hours, a cold front will move across the country, bringing mostly cloudy skies and widespread rain
During the night, showers are expected in some areas, primarily in the western and northern regions, while the rest of the country will experience clearing skies
During the night, cloud cover will increase and thicken, with showers expected to develop from the southwest
Tomorrow, Bulgarians can expect a mix of sunshine and clouds as they step out into the springtime air
Over the next 24 hours, expect cloudy skies with rainfall across the eastern half of the country, where precipitation may be intense in some areas. Meanwhile, the western half will see clouds clearing during the day, becoming mostly sunny
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