The Traffic Management Center, commonly known in Russian circles as the TCOC, has issued important updates about road closures in central Moscow during the forthcoming January holiday period. The information circulated through the capital’s Ministry of Transport Telegram channel to help residents and visitors anticipate shifts in traffic patterns. The plan emphasizes temporary restrictions designed to accommodate a major religious procession and related ceremonies, reflecting the city’s focus on public safety, orderly conduct, and smooth mobility during festive observances. This guidance equips drivers with practical expectations about detours, timing changes, and the possibility of brief congestion as authorities implement the closures.
On January 3, 2024, several principal routes will be temporarily closed to ensure the parade can move without obstructions. In particular, traffic on Petrovsky Boulevard and Krapivensky Lane will be halted, and the intersection of Petrovka Street with Krapivensky Lane will be affected as well. The closures are scheduled to occur from 11:20 to 11:35, a narrow window chosen to minimize disruption while guaranteeing safe passage for participants. Motorists are advised to follow approved detour routes, observe posted signs, and comply with directions from on-site officers. The coordinated timing of these blocks is essential to sustaining steady progress for the procession and to reducing delays for nearby residents and local businesses.
Beyond the morning closures, a broader restriction plan surrounds the Cathedral of Christ the Savior during the Christmas celebrations. Vehicle traffic will be blocked on Volkhonka Street from Soymonovsky Proezd to Lenivka Street, and Soymonovsky Proezd will be closed from Volkhonka to Prechistenskaya Embankment. These measures take effect from 18:00 on January 6 and remain in place until 03:00 on January 7. The aim is to support ceremonial events, manage crowding, and maintain safe pedestrian movement in a high-traffic area. Motorists should anticipate longer travel times in the vicinity and consider alternative routes or public transit when planning evening movements around these venues.
These traffic adjustments follow a prior announcement about a New Year drive-time enforcement period. Authorities have stressed heightened vigilance for drivers during holiday periods and urged road users to stay informed about updates, obey temporary signage, and adjust travel plans accordingly. The overarching objective is to preserve safety for participants and residents while maintaining access to essential services and local commerce during a festive period that attracts sizable crowds to central districts.