Traffic jams at the Polish border: how Ukrainians are forced to wait to leave in early summer

Saturday, June 6, became a test for drivers planning to leave Ukraine towards Poland. Massive traffic jams formed at the country's western border. According to operational data from the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine (SBGS), only two border crossing points remain free for unimpeded passage.

Map of jams: where cars and buses are stuck

The situation at the border remains tense. The department has recorded traffic congestion at several key directions. The situation is particularly difficult at the Krakovec and Shehyni border crossing points. Here, queues of buses have formed to leave the country: 13 passenger carriers are waiting at each point. Additional pressure falls on Ustyluh, where one stationary bus has also been recorded.

At the moment, the only "windows" for free border crossing remain the Smylnytsia and Nyzhankovychi border crossing points. Drivers seeking to avoid multi-hour waits are advised to choose these routes.

Passenger flow growth and new rules

The SBGS explains the current situation as a seasonal factor. With the start of the summer tourist season, the load on the western border traditionally increases. This year, the department forecasts a 20% increase in passenger flow compared to previous periods.

In addition to the seasonal influx, the speed of border crossing is affected by an updated technical base. Since May, a new function of the "eCherha" system has been operational in Ukraine. Now, the service automatically checks the presence and validity of the international insurance certificate "Green Card" even before the driver arrives at the border crossing point. This innovation is intended to speed up administrative procedures but requires drivers to pay attention to their documents.

Situation in other directions

Border crossing problems affect not only those leaving but also those arriving. At the Ustyluh border crossing point, about 20 cars are waiting to enter Ukraine. In addition, it is worth considering restrictions in other directions: starting June 8, movement through the "Solotvyno — Sigetu-Marmacie" border crossing point on the border with Romania is temporarily restricted. The reason is necessary infrastructure work on the bridge over the Tisza river.