In a significant regulatory response, Bulgarian environmental authorities have mandated emission reductions at the Maritsa 3 thermal power plant following alarming levels of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) detected in Dimitrovgrad. The decision comes after continuous monitoring revealed a marked increase in pollution levels on January 26, raising concerns about air quality in the region.
The spike in SO₂ concentrations was identified by an automated air quality monitoring station, prompting the Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water (RIEW) in Haskovo to take immediate preventive measures. Early on January 26, the plant operator received directives to implement urgent corrective actions aimed at curbing SO₂ emissions.
Subsequent inspections at the power plant indicated that the combustion unit was operating at approximately 50 MW, within its standard technical parameters. However, despite this compliance, SO₂ levels recorded in Dimitrovgrad surpassed legal limits, reaching concentrations that were 1.27 times the maximum allowable hourly average of 350 micrograms per cubic meter.
Officials have pointed out that while emissions from Maritsa 3 contributed to the exceedance, they were not the sole factor. Adverse weather conditions, including fog and unfavorable wind patterns, played a significant role in the accumulation and transport of pollutants from the wider Maritsa industrial zone toward Dimitrovgrad.
To mitigate further air quality deterioration, RIEW has imposed binding instructions on Maritsa 3, requiring a reduction in SO₂ emissions. These measures will remain effective until pollution levels drop significantly below regulatory thresholds and the risk of additional exceedances is adequately addressed.
This incident follows a similar occurrence on January 20, when monitoring stations reported SO₂ concentrations exceeding permitted levels by 1.28 times the legal limit. The recurrence of these exceedances highlights ongoing concerns regarding air quality management in Dimitrovgrad and its surrounding areas.
