Housing Prices Rise in Sofia, but Affordability Improves
Housing affordability in Sofia has improved since the pandemic, making it one of the few capitals in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) to experience this positive trend
In Sofia, 588 serious road accidents have occurred this year, 11 fewer than the same period last year, according to Commissioner Valentin Krusharski, head of the "Road Police" at the Capital Directorate of Internal Affairs (SDVR). There have been 693 injured, a slight increase by two, while fatalities decreased to 25, which is 14 fewer compared to 2023.
Krusharski attributes these improvements to tighter control by various SDVR units, including traffic and security police, and to recent legal changes. Speeding remains the most common offense, with 302,949 violations recorded in Sofia so far this year—over 32,000 more than the previous year.
Seatbelt and safety system violations, by both drivers and passengers, also remain a concern. This year, fines have increased by 1,000 cases, totaling 6,273 individuals penalized for failing to use proper restraints or incorrectly transporting children in vehicles.
Commissioner Krusharski also highlighted an increase in penalties related to electric scooters, with over 40 fines issued this year compared to about 15 last year. Common infractions include minors riding without helmets, often carrying a second passenger. Parents of these children are being fined 50 leva for allowing such violations.
Speeding violations are most frequent on major routes like Cherni Vrah Blvd., the Southern Arch of the Ring Road, and Bulgaria Blvd. The highest recorded speed was over 260 km/h on the ring road.
Additionally, 1,098 drivers have been caught driving under the influence of alcohol, while 635 were found using drugs. Krusharski emphasized that officers are equipped with the necessary devices to test for both substances.
The Petrohan Pass remains fully closed to traffic due to numerous fallen trees obstructing the road
A tragic incident occurred when a 29-year-old woman from Sandanski gave birth in an ambulance while being transported to a hospital in Petric
The body of a 21-year-old man was discovered in the Ogosta River, prompting an investigation by the Vratsa police
A car collided with a tram in Sofia on the evening of November 26, causing the tram to derail
Bulgarian police detained a group of illegal migrants following a high-speed chase on Sofia’s ring road
A tragic incident occurred at a school in Sofia where an 11-year-old girl passed away
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