Ulan-Ude declares war on black ice with urgent safety measures
Ulan-Ude's mayor has ordered urgent action against black ice across the city. Igor Shutenkov instructed municipal services to step up efforts after recent freezing conditions caused hazards on roads and walkways. The move aims to improve safety for the city's 435,000 residents during winter weather.
Since the start of the week, crews have pumped out over 650 cubic metres of water to prevent ice buildup. They have also spread 940 tons of sand on roads to improve traction. The mayor demanded faster removal of ice from streets, pavements, staircases and pedestrian areas.
Residents now have multiple ways to report icy patches or request gritting. A dedicated chatbot, @dispmbukbu_bot, accepts complaints about puddles and slippery surfaces. For immediate help, people can call the 24/7 dispatch service on 38-08-38 or 37-96-46. The Municipal Services Committee must ensure safe movement for everyone. The Satellite Monitoring Department has also been told to increase checks on road conditions. Requests from the public will now be processed more quickly under the new measures.
The city's response includes more frequent inspections and faster gritting operations. Officials have stressed the need for safe, accessible routes during winter. Residents can use digital and phone services to flag dangerous spots for immediate attention.
