With pipes from India, Bulgaria accelerates construction of gas pipeline to Central Europe
A significant milestone has been reached in the Vertical Gas Corridor project as a second shipment of pipes has arrived at the Port of Burgas. Energy Minister Zhecho Stankov was present to oversee the delivery of 2,526 pipes sourced from India, which are crucial for advancing the construction of the Bulgarian section of the gas pipeline. The project aims to enhance energy connectivity between Greece and Romania, with the first segment already underway.
Progress on Construction and Upcoming Challenges
Minister Stankov announced that the initial 48-kilometer segment of the pipeline, extending to Kresna, has been fully cleared. Some of the pipes have already been laid and welded, marking a significant step forward in the project. The construction is on track for completion by the second quarter of 2026, which is a crucial timeline for the energy infrastructure in the region.
Looking ahead, the next phase of the project will involve laying an additional 61 kilometers of pipeline to Vetrino. This segment is expected to present several engineering challenges. Notably, the construction will require the installation of 30 kilometers of pipeline across the Stara Planina mountain range, as well as navigating three rivers and drilling beneath the Hemus motorway. These challenges highlight the complexity of the project and the need for careful planning and execution to ensure its success.
The Vertical Gas Corridor project is a vital initiative aimed at improving energy security and diversification in Southeast Europe, and the arrival of these pipes marks a significant step toward achieving that goal.
