Bulgaria Restricts Traffic on the Giurgiu–Ruse Friendship Bridge: Delays Expected on a Key Danube Transport Route

Starting October 19, 2026, temporary traffic restrictions will be introduced on the Friendship Bridge connecting Giurgiu, Romania, and Ruse, Bulgaria. Repair works will take place in two stages, from October 19 to 22 and from October 26 to 29, potentially affecting international road transport.

According to Romanian border authorities, the restrictions are related to the installation of expansion joints on the Bulgarian section of the bridge.

The first stage will run from October 19 at 09:00 until October 22 at 17:00. During this period, the right lane will be closed, with vehicles alternating in both directions along the left lane.

The second stage is scheduled from October 26 at 09:00 until October 29 at 17:00. Construction works will move to the left lane, while traffic will alternate along the right lane. The direction of traffic will change approximately every 20 minutes.

A complete bridge closure is not planned. However, transport operators are advised to anticipate longer waiting times and possible delays.

The restrictions coincide with changes to the bridge toll system. As of October 1, Romania abolished the toll for crossing from Giurgiu to Ruse. Meanwhile, Bulgaria continues to collect a toll for travel in the opposite direction. The possibility of abolishing this fee remains under discussion in Bulgaria.

Commentary by the Institute of Danube Research

The Institute of Danube Research emphasizes the strategic importance of the Giurgiu–Ruse Friendship Bridge for transport integration in the Danube region and international freight connections between Romania, Bulgaria, and other Southeastern European countries.

Temporary traffic restrictions on the Giurgiu–Ruse Bridge once again highlight the vulnerability of cross-border transport infrastructure along the Danube. Even a partial reduction in the capacity of such infrastructure may cause freight delays, increase logistics costs, and disrupt international transport schedules.

For Ukraine, the stable operation of this transport crossing is also important, as routes through Romania and Bulgaria provide road connections with the Balkans, Greece, and Türkiye.

According to the Institute, the situation highlights the need to modernize existing bridges, develop alternative transport routes, and strengthen coordination among Danube countries.

The IDR stresses that developing cross-border infrastructure and increasing the capacity of Danube bridge crossings should remain priorities of the European Union's regional transport policy.