The water level in the Minsk Sea has dropped and the coastline has changed. What's happening there?
A large-scale reconstruction of the hydraulic engineering complex is underway at the Zaslavl reservoir, or Minsk Sea — primarily the spillway, dam, and the building of the Ganales HPP, writes Onliner.
It is precisely because of these works that the appearance of the coastline has changed in some places: embankments, 'spits' have appeared, and the water level has been temporarily lowered. However, the reservoir is not being completely drained — it's about a phased repair to minimize the impact on the recreation area.
The works began after extensive preparation: since 2016, the design and survey of the hydraulic system have been underway. During inspections, problems were found with concrete structures, coastal reinforcements, and the drainage system. In 2024, the water level was even temporarily lowered to carry out some technical works.
Currently, one of the key stages is underway — the construction of a temporary dam. Its length is expected to be about 830 meters, and its height up to 12 meters. The works are being carried out in phases, and the HPP continues to operate in parallel.
Also, due to construction equipment, one of the approaches to the water from the railway station side has been blocked. This is done for safety reasons, as equipment is moving there.
Authorities state that part of the closed sections are planned to be opened by summer, but temporary restrictions may return if construction works require it.