Republic of Bulgaria
Ministry of Environment and Waters
Outgoing number: 26-00-4967
Sofia, 21.06.2001

Ref: "Struma" Motorway in the Kresna gorge region

Dear Mr. Chachev,
Dear Mr. Rodopmanov,

In the Ministry of Environment and Waters a letter from several environmental non-governmental organizations, was received copy of which we forward to you. We inform you that the proposal for "Kresna gorge" Protected Area designation made by the "Balkani" Society was filed on 15.03.2001. The Ministry of environment and Waters consider the proposal appropriate and with letter from the 03.05.2001 "Balkani" Society was assigned to submit the full documentation for the proposal, in line with the Bulgarian Protected Area Law. In this connection we insist that a detailed study of realistic route alternatives of the "Struma" Motorway outside the Kresna gorge to be performed. On your judgment, please assign for consideration the alternatives proposed in the NGOs' letter. Enclosed: text of the letter.

Sincerely,

E. Maneva
Minister of Environment and Waters