The construction of the third metro line in Bulgaria's Sofia could be delayed over appeals lodged against a decision of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Sofia chief architect Petar Dikov said.

"The project for the third metro line was scrutinized and subjected to many public hearings. A number of meetings were held with the participation of many civic councils and experts. There are two appeals (...) which are the result of a misunderstanding rather than a genuine concern for the environmental impact of the third metro line. Hopefully, this is not done in order to intentionally delay its construction,” Dikov said, as quoted by Focus news agency.

According to him, the main reasons for the appeals are that the construction of the metro line will disrupt the natural course of groundwater, springs, etc.

"These appeals could delay the construction, but I rely on the common sense of the applicants. We will initiate a meeting with them and everyone will be able to put forward their arguments. The case is scheduled for late April, but it is clear that if there is a legal proceeding, it will take more than one hearing," Dikov explained.

The construction of the third metro line in Sofia will start with the stretch between Yanko Sakazov boulevard and Borovo district. It would be the most technologically complicated part of the route and will be financed by the EU Transport and Transport Infrastructure program 2014-2020.