Why a Recently Overhauled Kyiv Overpass Now Requires Permanent Supports

The State of Kyiv's Bridges and Overpasses

According to Главком: An overpass near the Nyvky metro station, which underwent a major reconstruction in 2017 at a cost of 202 million UAH by the company 'Onur', is now in critical condition. This situation highlights ongoing challenges with infrastructure maintenance and contractor accountability in Ukraine's capital. Just two years later in 2019, the concrete beams began to crumble, prompting a superficial repair. By 2021, visible cracks had appeared on the beams. In response, the Kyiv City State Administration (KCMA) stated that the private contractor would repair the defective beams under its warranty obligations. Since then, the beams have been reinforced and additional support pillars installed, with their number increasing each year.

Beyond the Nyvky overpass, the 73-year-old Paton Bridge also requires urgent attention. In 1985, it was downgraded to a 'serviceable' condition, and by 1990 to 'limited serviceability'. However, since 2018, the Paton Bridge has been classified as 'non-serviceable'. This assessment was provided by Oleksandr Shymanovskyi, General Director of the V. M. Shymanovskyi Ukrainian Institute of Steel Construction.

Persistent Infrastructure Issues

In 2026, massive permanent support structures began replacing lighter temporary ones at Nyvky. The annual increase in the number of these supports indicates the infrastructure problems are ongoing and worsening. The public organization 'Passengers of Kyiv' also monitors the overpass's condition, underscoring the issue's relevance for the city's residents.

The condition of Kyiv's overpasses and bridges is a source of significant concern for local residents and experts. Infrastructure failures can have serious consequences for traffic safety and overall mobility in the city. Authorities must take urgent measures to address these problems to prevent further incidents and ensure the reliability of the capital's key transport arteries.