Southern Bridge in Kyiv Partially Open: What Is Allowed and Prohibited from October 30

Starting October 30, car traffic is gradually resuming on the Southern Bridge across the Dnipro River in Kyiv. According to the Kyiv City State Administration, cited by RBC-Ukraine, one lane has been opened in the direction from the left bank to the right bank for vehicles weighing up to 10 tons, including passenger cars. The decision was made following a technical inspection of the structure and expert conclusions from the National Institute of Infrastructure Development.

What Exactly Is Open for Traffic

In the first phase, traffic on the bridge is permitted in only one lane and in only one direction — from the left bank to the right bank. The weight limit is 10 tons, which allows passenger vehicles to use the crossing as well. Traffic in the opposite direction, from the right bank to the left bank, remains closed for now as technical work continues on that side. The KCSA clarified that the restoration of traffic on the second side of the bridge will be announced separately.

How the Opening Decision Was Made

The resumption of traffic became possible only after specialists completed a technical inspection of the bridge. The expertise was conducted by the National Institute of Infrastructure Development, and its conclusions formed the basis of the KCSA's decision. Before allowing transport, specialists checked the structural strength and assessed which parts of the bridge could withstand the load.

What Else Needs Repair

Full restoration of the Southern Bridge is not yet complete. Utility company specialists, together with scientists, are working out how to repair the damaged structures, including the section where the metro line runs. This is why traffic is currently limited to one lane and one direction, and the timeline for full opening depends on the progress of repair work.

How the Bridge Was Damaged During the Attack

The Southern Bridge was damaged during an attack on the night of October 27. According to Air Force Spokesperson Yurii Ihnat, Russia fired several ballistic missiles at the bridge. In total, according to his data, 16 Iskander-M or S-400 missiles were used in that attack; specialists must determine which specific ones hit the bridge. Ihnat warned that the restoration of the bridge deck will take time.

How the City Adapted Transportation

Following the strike on the bridge, repair work was carried out around the clock, while specialists continuously checked structural strength. Due to the damage, the green metro line operated in separate sections, and the city reinforced bus routes across the Darnytsia Bridge to ensure passengers could cross the Dnipro. These measures remain in place until traffic on the Southern Bridge is fully restored.