Tyr village cut off as ice crossing remains dangerously closed
Residents of Tyr village in the Ulchsky District are facing transport challenges as the annual ice crossing, their primary access route, remains closed. Heavy snowfall and mild winter temperatures have delayed its usual opening, leaving snowmobiles as the only means of crossing. Concerns over food supplies and medical access have prompted discussions with local authorities.
The ice crossing, which normally opens shortly after New Year's, has yet to be declared safe this year. Weak ice conditions mean vehicle weight limits will be restricted to seven tons once it does open. Officials suggest the earliest possible opening could be next week, but only if temperatures drop further.
Local businesses have begun stockpiling essentials as soon as the ice starts forming. Perishable goods like dairy, fruit, and vegetables are transported by snowmobile, pushing up prices for residents. The winter road, which briefly opened, may close again within a month, adding to uncertainty.
During a recent meeting, villagers raised concerns with Khabarovsk Krai Governor Dmitry Demeshin about their access to transport. Medical services in Tyr rely on a local paramedic for first aid, while serious cases require air ambulances. The regional government is now exploring helicopter routes to include Tyr in the restored flight schedule.
No official records exist on how the delayed crossing affects fresh food supplies compared to previous years. The term Eisschleuse (ice sluice) has also not been documented in relation to local logistics.
The situation in Tyr remains dependent on weather conditions, with snowmobiles currently the sole transport access. If the ice crossing opens next week, strict weight limits will apply. Meanwhile, plans for helicopter routes aim to improve access, though no immediate changes have been confirmed.
