Major Repair Planned for Kyiv Metro Running Tunnel
Kyiv's municipal metro operator has received a positive state expert review for a major repair project on a running tunnel between the 'Taras Shevchenko' and 'Pochaina' stations on the Obolonsko-Teremkivska line. Metro officials state there is currently no threat to train operations or passenger safety, and services are running normally. This project is part of ongoing efforts to modernize the aging subway system, a critical piece of infrastructure for the city's residents.
The running tunnels in this section were constructed between 1978 and 1980, using a cast-iron tubbing lining with reinforced concrete elements. A recent technical inspection determined that a major overhaul is necessary. According to the project plan, the full scope of work could take up to 23 months to complete, with an estimated cost of 1.84 billion Ukrainian hryvnias.
Project Scope and Potential Implementation Methods
The capital repair project involves a complex set of engineering measures, including:
- Ground reinforcement,
- Repair of the tunnel structure and track bed elements,
- Installation of modern systems to monitor the structure's technical condition.
Two possible methods for carrying out the repairs are currently under consideration:
- The first option would involve performing the work without altering train schedules. This would require excavating a pit, relieving the load on the structure, and restoring it to its original design parameters.
- The second option might entail temporary changes to train operations, such as extending the nightly maintenance window and adjusting the weekend schedule.
This project follows a previous six-month disruption on the city's blue line. On December 8, 2023, several stations—'Demiyivska', 'Holosiivska', 'Vasylkivska', 'Vystavkovyi Tsentr', 'Ipodrom', and 'Teremky'—were closed due to water ingress into the tunnel between 'Lybidska' and 'Demiyivska'. A shuttle train service was eventually restored between 'Teremky' and 'Demiyivska' on December 13, 2023.
The capital repair of the running tunnel is a crucial step in maintaining the safety and reliability of the Kyiv Metro, given its long period of operation. Implementing modern monitoring technologies could significantly enhance passenger safety levels. Observing previous station closures due to technical issues underscores the importance of timely repairs to ensure the stable operation of the capital's vital transport network.
As the Kyiv Metro prepares for this significant overhaul, residents should also be aware of upcoming traffic restrictions affecting key bridges in the city. These changes, set to begin on March 23, are part of broader infrastructure improvements aimed at enhancing urban mobility. For more details on the specific locations and timings of these closures, you can read about the traffic restrictions affecting Kyiv's key bridges.