New delay hits Yanıkköy (Nymfaia) Vertical Axis Bypass Project amid ICGB Pipeline issue
Construction of a temporary bypass on the Yanıkköy Vertical Axis has been halted once again, as new complications have emerged involving the Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB) pipeline.
The project, intended to restore traffic flow following road subsidence, was nearing a critical stage, with crews preparing to lay asphalt. However, works have been suspended pending coordination with pipeline authorities.
Work Paused Over Pipeline Coordination
According to Stavros Sakkos, head of the supervising service at Egnatia Odos S.A., construction has been on hold since last week.
The delay stems from the need to consult with the management of the Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB), whose administrative base is located in Bulgaria. Daily communication is ongoing, but no clear timeline has been established for when approvals or technical instructions will be finalized.
Uncertainty Over Additional Requirements
Project officials say it remains unclear whether further conditions will be imposed or what form they might take. Notably, the pipeline already runs beneath the rural road designated for the bypass, which suggests that major technical obstacles are not expected.
Despite this, construction teams are maintaining a wait-and-see approach until formal guidance is issued.
Key Infrastructure Under Pressure
The bypass is considered essential to temporarily restore circulation along the Yanıkköy axis, a strategic road connection in northern Greece linking to Bulgaria. Initial plans aimed to complete asphalt works and deliver the bypass within the coming week, but the latest setback has pushed the timeline into uncertainty.
Pipeline Crossings Not Uncommon
Officials report that that gas pipelines intersecting road networks are not unusual. The Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB) already crosses major routes, including the Gümülcine–Dedeağaç national highway and regional roads in the area.
Still, until coordination is finalized, the project remains stalled, adding to a series of delays affecting the Yanıkköy Vertical Axis.
