The planned two-year major repair of Danube Bridge 1 is expected to begin in July, announced the Ministry of Tourism. The initial intention was for the repairs to start in the autumn, after the summer tourist season, but due to the critical condition of the bridge and the crumbling pavement, which poses a real danger to those crossing it, urgent action had to be taken. 

According to estimates of the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works, the repair of Danube Bridge 1 will not significantly hinder traffic, as it will be regulated by traffic lights, without stopping traffic. The time required for processing documents at the border crossing will also compensate for any delays. ''Traffic will limited to one lane while the other is being repaired. Work will be carried out without days off and with extended working hours", said Regional Development Minister Violeta Koritarova, adding that Danube Bridge 1 has not been repaired for 70 years.