December 10 marks a national day of mourning, honouring the 18 victims of the road crash near Byala.

A heavy traffic accident on December 7 led to the death of 18 bus passengers. Many others were injured. A truck hit the bus because of a break failure and the vehicle fell from a bridge into Yantra River.

Council of Ministers took a decision on December 9 to provide 10 000 leva state aid to the families of the victims. Each passenger injured in the crash will receive 5000 leva.

Ministers also examined the report of Disaster Management Minister Emel Etem on the measures undertaken to deal with the tragedy.

Regional Development Minister Assen Gagauzov presented a report on the condition of the Byala-Rousse road and Transport Minister Petar Moutafchiev analysed the technical shape of the truck.

To avoid such accidents in the future, ministers agreed on four measures to be implemented in short periods of time.

The number of policemen monitoring road safety is going to be increased. Signs, warning drivers that they were entering a dangerous region, will be placed in the vicinity of the Byala bridge.

A second bridge over Yantra, close to Byala, is going to be constructed in 2007. After analysis the Transport Ministry will suggest road safety measures for the dangerous region.

By mid-January 2007 the Transport and Interior ministries have to present reports on traffic monitoring and the efficiency of fines.