Traffic on the Crimean Bridge briefly halted and crews begin inspection preparations
According to the operational channel of the highway information center, the automatic approach to the Crimean Bridge and the inspection preparations were underway. The report notes that vehicle movement on the bridge was temporarily blocked as crews prepared for a thorough check and assessment of the structure.
The official statement urged drivers on the bridge and in the inspection zone to stay calm and to follow directions from transportation security personnel. The message underscored the importance of orderly conduct while assessments take place to ensure safety and accessibility for all road users.
Marat Khusnullin, a former deputy prime minister of the Russian federation, indicated that traffic on the segment of the bridge damaged in July could resume within seven to ten days. He stated that the new opening has already been delivered and is fully assembled, with asphalt installation, lighting, and barriers currently being finalized. The plan centers on restoring a smooth and safe flow of vehicles across the affected span.
Earlier in his remarks, Khusnullin mentioned that the cost to restore the Crimean Bridge could range between one and 1.3 billion rubles, reflecting the scale of reconstruction required following the incident. The assessment highlighted the significant rebuilding work needed to restore full operational capacity to the crossing.
During the night of July 17, Sergei Aksyonov, the head of Crimea, announced that an emergency had occurred near the area of the 145th support on the Crimean Bridge in the Krasnodar Territory. Photographs from the scene show that one bridge opening collapsed while another sank, raising concerns about structural integrity and safety for travelers and responders alike. The incident prompted rapid investigation and coordination among regional authorities and security services.
The Russian National Counter-Terrorism Committee attributed the incident to Ukrainian special services, stating that two Ukrainian surface drones attacked the bridge. In response, the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation opened a criminal case under the article addressing a terrorist act. The update underscores the gravity of the situation and the ongoing judicial review related to the event.
There have been reports that Ukrainian authorities or groups were linked to the attack, with discussions continuing about the implications for regional security and cross-border stability. The case remains a focal point for observers tracking the evolving crisis and its impact on transport networks and safety protocols across the region. Marked sources describe the evolving official narratives and the steps being taken to determine jurisdiction and accountability in the days ahead.