My worst ever conditions
Page 24
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IN EARLY December (writes E. A. Major, GB2 58 5) I left from Turkey, between Erdine and Svilengrad at the Kapikule TIR border into Bulgaria. For some time the conditions existing here have been some of the worst I have ever experienced. Inefficient customs had caused large numbers of HGVs to assemble in a parking area on soft ground. It's a quagmire in winter and a dust bath in summer.
However, since the military government came to power, an improvement programme has been put into operation with large areas of concrete being laid. Unfortunately, construction equipment has broken away the surface of the hardpacked soil. Consequently HGVs often slip and slide and become bogged down in deep mud. The last few metres before the final gate consists of a dip rather like a motocross circuit causing tractor and trailer to twist at an uncomfortable angle while the driver fights to maintain traction.
Last winter at least one HGV to my knowledge turned over in this area, and the conditions are still unsatisfactory. Surely the transit taxes we pay entitle us to better than this?
• For more information on Routiers Drivers Club, please contact Simon Greenly or Susan Walker at: 354 Fulham Road, London SW10 9VH. Tel 01-351 3522.