Sidewalks in Zaslaŭje turned into an ice rink. Utility workers throw up their hands
Last week, the weather in Belarus changed sharply: a thaw with wet snow quickly gave way to severe frosts. As a result, roads and especially sidewalks in Zaslaŭje became covered with solid ice. Residents began to complain that it was almost impossible to walk safely on some streets. People are wondering why the ice isn't being cut with machinery and why anti-icing agents are hardly visible, writes the newspaper "Prystalichcha".
Journalists visited several problematic locations. It is especially dangerous near the railway station from Zyalyonaya street, where the road has turned into a slippery slope. On Dzyarzhynski street and along the sidewalk from Ushodnyaya street, walking is practically impossible — some people are forced to walk on the roadway, which creates a risk of being hit by a car.
The sidewalks are covered with a thick layer of ice, which formed after the moisture froze. Even where sanding was previously carried out, it helped little.
"Minraygarramautadar" (Minsk District Road Authority) explained that the problem is not a lack of treatment, but difficult weather conditions.
After rains and thaws, water froze at temperatures down to -17°C, forming monolithic ice. At such frosts, salt is almost ineffective, so now sand is used to create roughness. However, this method is less effective.
Active ice control will become possible when the temperature rises and reagents start working again.
As for mechanical ice removal, heavy machinery can damage sidewalk surfaces and make the situation even more dangerous. Road services note that they are working in an intensified mode: main efforts are directed to major thoroughfares, and equipment is partially involved in other settlements of the district as well.
Specialists admit that the situation is difficult and ask residents to be careful until the weather becomes more favorable. Pedestrians are advised to wear shoes with non-slip soles and to be maximally attentive.
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