Freight traffic to be blocked on the Hungarian and Serbian border

Heavy goods vehicle traffic will be suspended at several key border crossings between Hungary and Serbia from Monday afternoon, following the announcement of a nationwide demonstration by Serbian and Bosnian haulage associations.

Hungarian authorities are warning transport companies and drivers to prepare for major disruptions and to use alternative routes where possible.

Hungarian–Serbian border to be blocked for heavy vehicle traffic

According to information released by the Hungarian National Police Headquarters (ORFK), Serbia will close all freight traffic lanes at border crossings shared with Schengen countries on Monday, 26 January, starting at 12:00 PM. The measure will remain in place for an indefinite period, depending on the duration of the protest.

On the Hungarian–Serbian section of the border, freight traffic will be fully blocked in both directions at the Röszke, Tompa and Hercegszántó crossings. Passenger traffic is not expected to be affected, but long queues and congestion may form in surrounding areas as a result of diverted lorry traffic.

Authorities advise planning on alternative routes

To reduce pressure on border zones and prevent large-scale traffic jams, Hungarian authorities are urging hauliers to plan alternative transit routes in advance. Lorries travelling on the M5 motorway are advised to divert onto the M43 and continue towards Romania, crossing the border at Csanádpalota (Nagylak II.). Those approaching the Romanian border via the M4 should use the Nagykereki (Bors II.) crossing.

Drivers heading south on the M6 motorway are being warned that access towards Serbia will be completely closed at Hercegszántó. Instead, affected vehicles should continue towards Croatia and make use of Croatian transit routes to reach their destinations.

Police have also issued a series of safety-related recommendations. Drivers are strongly advised not to approach closed border sections directly and to use large-capacity lorry parks located along the M1, M0, M5 and M6 motorways while waiting. Planning rest stops well in advance is recommended, starting as early as the western border area near Hegyeshalom or Rajka.

Authorities stressed that stopping in motorway emergency lanes is strictly prohibited and poses a serious safety risk. Police will take action against drivers who violate parking regulations.

Given the uncertain length of the demonstration, hauliers are also encouraged to ensure they have sufficient fuel, food and drinking water before setting off. Drivers are advised to check the latest border situation on the police’s official Határinfó website and to follow updates displayed on digital traffic information boards above motorways.