On October 22 at around 11:00 AM, vehicle traffic across the Southern Bridge in Kyiv was completely halted in both directions. This was announced by the Head of the Patrol Police Department, Oleksii Biloshytskyi. The restrictions were introduced as part of enhanced security measures following the aftermath of a massive night attack on the capital.
Chronology of Restrictions and Morning Measures
Initially, the Kyiv Patrol Police addressed road users at around 06:00 AM on October 22, warning of a temporary closure of the crossing from the right bank to the left bank. Drivers were urged to factor in these changes when planning their daily routes across the city. However, by 11:00 AM, the situation required drastic measures, and traffic was completely shut down in both directions.
Large-Scale Consequences of the Night Attack on the Capital
The decision to close the strategic facility was made following a new massive wave of ballistic strikes on Kyiv recorded overnight. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that Russian forces launched three consecutive waves of ballistic strikes against the city. A total of 21 weapon units were used during the air raid.
Infrastructure Destruction and Transport Issues
According to the head of state, the shelling resulted in a significant number of hits and damages. Residential buildings, energy facilities, the infrastructure of one of the railway stations and the metro, as well as shopping centers and industrial enterprises came under attack. The city is experiencing a severe transport collapse accompanied by a sharp rise in taxi prices.
Significance of Bridge Closure for Urban Logistics
The complete halt of traffic on the Southern Bridge significantly complicates transport links between the right and left banks of the Dnipro River. Along with restrictions on the metro operations, this creates an additional burden on the remaining crossings and requires city services to promptly redistribute public transport flows. Drivers are advised to temporarily refrain from traveling through the southern part of the capital until safety assurance works are completed.
