site.btaGreek Road Approaching Bulgarian Border Closed Due to Landslides

Traffic on the main Komotini–Nymfaia road (A-23) in Northeastern Greece, which runs towards the border with Bulgaria, is currently closed in both directions due to serious damage to the road surface caused by heavy rainfall, landslides, and subsidence, the Bulgarian Foreign Ministry reported on its website on Thursday.

The affected section is between the Kalhas junction and the Nymfaia junction. The Makaza border crossing is not closed, but access to it from the Greek side is hindered, the Ministry said.

A temporary traffic arrangement has been put in place, using the old road via Karidia and Pandrosos, which again connects to Nymfaia and the main route. This route allows movement of passenger cars and light-duty trucks with gross weight of up to 3.5 tonnes. Travel is noticeably slower due to the terrain and poor infrastructure, and traffic jams can form on busier days, the Foreign Ministry noted.

At this stage, there is no clear timeline for the full restoration of traffic, and the temporary arrangement will remain in effect during the Easter holiday period. This may result in significant congestion on both the temporary detour and the border crossings and transport links between Bulgaria and Greece, particularly at the Makaza crossing.

The Ministry advises that, where possible and at their discretion, drivers use alternative border crossings, such as Kapitan Petko Voyvoda or Zlatograd. Those travelling via Makaza are advised to exercise extra caution and allow additional travel time, especially on busy days.

For consular assistance, Bulgarian citizens may contact the Consulate General of Bulgaria in Thessaloniki at +30 2310 829 210; +30 2310 869 510, or the duty phone outside office hours at +30 2310 869 520, as well as by email at Consulate.Thessaloniki@mfa.bg
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