Ministers Violeta Koritarova and Georgi Gvozdeykov discussed with the Romanian Ambassador the readiness to launch the Ruse-Giurgiu ferry

Bulgaria is fully ready for the resumption of the Ruse-Giurgiu ferry line. The project is of key importance for easing traffic between Bulgaria and Romania in view of the upcoming renovation works on the Danube Bridge. This became clear during a meeting between the Minister of Regional Development and Public Works Violeta Koritarova, the Minister of Transport and Communications Georgi Gvozdeykov with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Romania to Bulgaria H.E. Brunduşa Ioana Predescu.

“We have carried out an analysis which showed that in May more than 200 000 cars crossed the Danube Bridge at Ruse. During the renovation, the ferry line will inevitably help to ease traffic and shorten crossing times between the two countries. Our studies show that it can take 20% of the heavy traffic, which will allow tourists to travel more peacefully,” said Minister Koritarova. She added that the contractor company, which will repair the Bulgarian section of the bridge, will work without interruption, with extended working hours 7 days a week, on shortened deadlines, with the possibility of shortening the deadline of the repair works.

Minister Gvozdeykov explained the need to open the ferry link. “In this way we will help transport and the economy, we will help the supplies to arrive in the fastest way, and the clear deadlines for the launch of the line will bring security and reassurance not only for the transport industry, but also for all tourists,” said Georgi Gvozdeikov. According to him, the operator that will carry out the ferry services, as well as all institutions related to the project, are ready to start work.

“On Friday the government of Romania took a very important step towards opening the ferry link between Ruse and Giurgiu, but it will take technical time to start the procedure,” said Romanian Ambassador H.E. Brunduşa Predescu.

Minister Gvozdeikov pointed out to the Romanian ambassador that good organisation was needed on both sides. “In the last one month, two emergency repairs have been carried out, which show the urgency of the complete renovation of the facility. Our aim is not to make it difficult for people to pass during the summer season, but to take care of their safety,” the transport minister said.

Minister Koritarova said that an inter-ministerial working group has been formed to coordinate the work of the institutions involved in the repair of the bridge. A major information campaign will also be conducted for all commuters. “I am committed that the MRDPW will be in constant contact with the Embassy so that all commuters have timely information about the repairs,” she assured.