Vasily Golubev, the governor of Rostov region, announced on his official Telegram channel that traffic along the M-4 Don highway has fallen by about 30 percent in recent hours. The update reflects a significant shift in congestion levels as authorities coordinate response efforts and monitor road conditions to ensure the safety and smooth flow of vehicles through the affected sector.
According to the governor, a substantial on-site operation is underway, with 181 people and 111 units of equipment mobilized to liquidate the emergencies arising from the incident. The decreased congestion has translated into a notable relief for travelers, with the visible queue length shrinking from 60 kilometers to approximately 39 kilometers. Golubev emphasized that information is received hourly and the response team remains actively engaged in managing the situation and communicating developments with the public.
As part of the emergency response plan, eight heating and feeding points and seven temporary shelters were established within the affected area as of 03:00. These facilities are designed to provide warmth, sustenance, medical support, and a safe shelter for people stranded in the traffic disruption. Scientific and practical assessments indicate that the presence of these points helps stabilize conditions for motorists and residents alike, especially in periods of severe weather and prolonged immobilization on major routes.
In addition, personnel from the Ministry of Emergency Situations organized four “technological breaks.” These breaks function as openings in the axial barrier fence, allowing vehicles trapped in traffic to maneuver out and rejoin the flow when it is safe to do so. The initiative is part of a broader tactic aimed at restoring mobility while minimizing further risk to drivers and pedestrians who might otherwise be confined by the barriers in place.
Food distribution has been arranged along seven routes feeding into the emergency area, ensuring that the needs of travelers and local residents are met during the disruption. The distribution network is coordinated with local authorities and emergency services to maintain supply lines, reduce the potential for shortages, and support families who may be stranded for extended periods. Continuous monitoring and adjustments are made to optimize the delivery of essentials as the situation evolves.
Earlier reports highlighted the scale of the disruption on the Rostov traffic corridor, with many people reporting shortages of fuel, food, and basic medical care. The latest official updates indicate a proactive, structured response aimed at addressing these gaps through a combination of mobile services, shelter provisions, and direct assistance to motorists. The region has faced heavy snowfall over nearly a full day, which compounded the impact on traffic and necessitated temporary closures and the rapid deployment of aid resources along the 75-kilometer stretch of the M-4 Don highway. As conditions evolve, authorities continue to adapt strategies to ensure those affected receive timely support and that traffic can resume in a controlled and safe manner.