The Upper Lars Border Crossing: Foot Transit Now Allowed as Traffic Builds Up
Recent updates from the North Ossetian government indicate a growing crowd of travelers heading toward Georgia via the Upper Lars checkpoint. On the day before the report, officials noted that approximately 3,500 cars were queued at the crossing, signaling a surge in vehicle movement toward the neighboring country. The situation has prompted coordinated actions among regional authorities to maintain safety and order at the border.
An on-site meeting convened at the border facility brought together key figures from North Ossetia. Attendees included the Minister of the Interior, the head of the State Traffic Inspectorate, and senior officials from the Border Directorate of the Federal Security Service for North Ossetia-Alania. The North Ossetian customs administration also participated, as reported by the Telegram channel of the regional interior ministry. The gathering focused on improving border management and public safety amid rising traffic pressures. Attribution: North Ossetia Interior Ministry channel.
A notable decision emerged from the discussions aimed at safeguarding civilians and reducing risks of unlawful conduct. Officials agreed to permit pedestrians to cross the border on foot. Prior to this adjustment, the border checkpoint between Russia and Georgia restricted crossing to vehicles, motorcycles, and bicycles, with hitchhikers often advised to join passing cars. The new protocol allows people to walk across the border, a change intended to ease flow and reduce bottlenecks for travelers who are on foot or traveling without a vehicle. Attribution: North Ossetian authorities.
The influx of traffic toward Georgia continues to intensify. Despite enhanced policing measures, including a 24-hour extension of patrol operations, the border remains under strain. Authorities emphasize the need for additional steps to ensure citizen safety and orderly processing at the checkpoint. The evolving situation calls for ongoing coordination among border agencies, law enforcement, and local government to prevent conflicts and maintain public confidence during the crossing window. Attribution: North Ossetian leadership briefing.
In another development, officials indicated that a mobilization point for the military registration and recruitment office will be established at the Upper Lars checkpoint in the near future. The purpose of this addition is to streamline procedures and ensure clear guidelines for individuals who may be in the dynamic border area. This planned facility will operate in conjunction with existing border controls to support state security and administrative functions at the crossing. Attribution: regional security brief.
The outcomes of the meeting were communicated to the head of the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania, underscoring the importance of a unified response to border challenges. As traffic patterns evolve, the regional administration continues to monitor the situation and coordinate with federal partners to sustain safe, predictable border crossing conditions for residents and visitors alike. Attribution: regional government update.