Minister Lilyana Pavlova: During the Next Week We Will Announce Public Procurement for Implementation of the Toll System

During the next week we will announce the tender for selection of a contractor who will design and implement the toll system in the country. This was stated by the minister of Regional Development and Public Works, Mrs. Lilyana Pavlova, on Channel 3. 

The increase of revenues from tolls for driving along the roads will be slower during the first year of its introduction into service, however, they could double afterwards. At a next stage the revenues could reach up to BGN1 mlrd annualy, informed she, adding that this is a better starting point for the road quality in the country. The system will be built on the principle of deferred payment. The indicative value for the implementation of the system is about BGN 200 mln., but when choosing a contractor it will be looked for competition regarding implementation as well as price, said the minister.

Pavlova informed that the tender for selection of a constructor of the first 10 km of Hemus motorway between Yablanitsa and Boaza will be announced this May. The minister added that the construction works could start in the following year. She explained that the road section to the road junction between Pleven and Lovech will be redesigned in order not to build several facilities such as the viaduct at Vitinya, which will reduce the project costs.

Regarding the section of Struma motorway through Kresna gorge the regional minister pointed out that evaluation of environmental impact is being carried out. It will select such an option for the project so that it can be technically, financially and environmentally justified.

Due to the expected higher revenues from the increased prices of the vignettes this year – about BGN 50 – 60 mln. more, we will repair 10-15 road sections, that are in grave condition and with most intensive traffic, mainly in North and Northwestern Bulgaria, said Pavlova. On Friday we announced tenders for selection of contractors for rehabilitation of 240 km second and third class roads, which will be financed by Operational Programme Regions in Growth, noted she, stressing that the procedures are transparent and it is looked for the lowest price.          

In terms of Water Reform the regional minister commented that the consolidation of companies will lead to economies of scale, thus creating opportunity for more investments and improving the services.

We have developed a program which will be funded through the budged of the ministry, as for the current year we foresee resource of BGN 23 mln., which we will be invested into settlements with inadequate water quality. We envisage the program to be long term one, as each year to invest between BGN20 and BGN25 mln. for that purpose, added Pavlova.