Traffic jams even during the day: what's happening now at the intersection of Orlovskaya and Karastayanova in Minsk
From the evening of October 22, the traffic scheme was changed at the intersection of Orlovskaya and Karastayanova streets in Minsk, removing one lane in each direction. Restrictions were introduced on the section from house No. 11 on Orlovskaya to house No. 14 on Karastayanova, where large-scale street reconstruction and interchange construction works began. Instead of the usual three lanes in both directions, only two remained, causing one of the city's most complex intersections to become congested even in the middle of the day. Drivers have to quickly get used to temporary signs and maneuver between barriers. Domovita.by journalists went and saw what is happening now on Orlovskaya.
One lane down and a midday traffic jam
Even in normal times, the intersection of Orlovskaya and Karastayanova required increased concentration from drivers. From the evening of October 22, builders occupied part of the roadway on the section from Orlovskaya, 11 to Karastayanova, 14. The reason is serious: the reconstruction of Karastayanova Street and the construction of a new transport interchange began. Because of this, only two lanes were left for cars in each direction instead of the previous three.
The State Automobile Inspectorate had previously asked drivers to take these changes into account and, if possible, choose alternative routes. However, on the first day of the new scheme's operation, it was still impossible to avoid traffic jams.
Journalists arrived at the scene at 11 AM, when the morning rush hour had long since ended. Despite it being the middle of the day, a dense traffic jam had already formed on the approaches to the intersection.
The restrictions begin near the building with the "Shchodry" store, where a yellow temporary sign was placed directly on the sidewalk. The sign indicates that after 90 meters, the far right lane is closed, so traffic needs to merge left.
Narrow choke point and dangerous maneuvers
At the intersection itself, rows of water-filled barriers, road signs, and red-and-white posts are now installed. A work island has been cordoned off in the middle of the roadway, which traffic has to carefully navigate around. While passenger cars pass this section relatively quickly, it is noticeably more difficult for buses and trucks to fit into the new dimensions. Any turn or delay at a traffic light immediately causes a long tail of cars to form behind it.
The situation is complicated by rainy weather and wet asphalt, on which markings are less visible than usual. Motorists have not yet adapted to the new road geometry and, out of old habit, try to drive along familiar trajectories.
In just half an hour of observation at the intersection, several near-accident situations arose. Drivers managed to hit the brakes in time, so no accidents occurred.
It's understandable that the element of surprise is at play in the first few days: many simply haven't had time to adjust their usual routes. However, even after everyone gets used to the signs, two lanes physically won't be able to accommodate as much traffic as three did. During morning and evening rush hours, the load on this junction will increase even more significantly.
How long will the repair last?
When exactly the restrictions will be lifted and the previous number of lanes restored has not yet been officially announced. The reconstruction of the street and the construction of the interchange is not a quick process, so the new traffic scheme is clearly introduced for a long term.
In the near future, the intersection of Orlovskaya and Karastayanova will remain one of the slowest and most challenging points on the map of Minsk. For those who commute through this area daily for work or home, it is easier to look for alternative routes on neighboring streets in advance. If it's impossible to bypass the repair section, you will have to allow more time for the journey and carefully observe the maneuvers of neighboring vehicles in the flow.
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