Nymfaia vertical axis bypass set for early May completion amid urgent repairs

Authorities in northern Greece are racing against time to complete a temporary bypass on the Nymfaia Vertical Axis following a major road subsidence, with officials aiming to restore traffic before the peak summer season.

The project, overseen by Egnatia Odos S.A., is expected to be finalized by early May, according to infrastructure officials.

Subsidence Forces Indefinite Road Closure
The problem first emerged in late February, when a significant collapse of the bed was detected along the key cross-border route linking Greece to Bulgaria. Initial assessments suggested a quick repair, but further inspections revealed deeper structural instability, raising fears of potential collapse.

Engineers determined that the affected roads posed serious safety risks, prompting authorities to fully suspend traffic and redirect vehicles to an older provincial road—an alternative deemed insufficient, especially during high summer traffic.

• Partial reopening of the main axis
• Restoration of domestic and international traffic flows
• Relief for local communities and businesses

Officials stressed that the bypass is critical, as permanent restoration works will take several months, potentially requiring full reconstruction of the damaged հատված.

Strategic Importance for Tourism and Trade
Regional authorities, including representatives from Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, highlighted the road’s importance as a major gateway into Greece, handling millions of crossings annually.

Local leaders warned that prolonged closure could severely impact:

• Tourism flows
• Regional economy
• Cross-border commerce
• Additional Measures and Ongoing Assessments

Geotechnical surveys and drilling operations are underway to determine the full extent of the damage. 

Meanwhile, special arrangements are being made for heavy transport vehicles, including those carrying wind turbine components from Dedeağaç port. These will pass through the bypass before final asphalt paving to avoid long-term damage to the new road surface.

Local Pressure Mounts for Fast Resolution
Business groups and local officials have intensified pressure for a rapid solution, emphasizing that the current alternative routes cannot safely handle increased seasonal traffic.

Authorities remain cautiously optimistic that once the bypass is operational, traffic will resume smoothly, at least temporarily, until a permanent fix is implemented.