Truck traffic at the Turkey-Bulgaria border crossings has resumed as of October 29, following protests by drivers against Schengen visa restrictions.
Protests by truck drivers against Schengen area residency rules, specifically the 90-day limit within a 180-day period, caused significant disruptions at the Kapikule and Hamzabeyli border crossings. The protests, which began on October 27, led to long queues and halted freight operations. However, the International Transporters Association of Turkey (UND) confirmed that traffic flow normalized starting October 29. While congestion persists at Hamzabeyli due to the backlog of vehicles, customs operations have resumed. Transport companies are advised to monitor border traffic conditions and waiting times when planning logistics through these routes.