The State Duma is reviewing a bill to introduce digital accounting for electric scooters across Russia, according to a report cited by News and attributed to Pavel Fedyaev, the First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Transport and Transport Infrastructure Development.
The proposed norms would potentially require each scooter sold in the country to carry a two-dimensional matrix barcode containing extensive information. Buyers of personal mobility devices would be obligated to register these codes in a dedicated system designed for tracking and management.
Implications for enforcement and administration
Fedyaev suggested that traffic police should not be tasked with managing this registration. He warned that involving law enforcement in on-the-ground registration could place a heavy burden on police resources. Instead, he proposed that the registration process for electric scooters be made remote, convenient, and easily accessible for users.
According to the deputy, once scooters are registered, they could receive unique identifiers to monitor their movements. In theory, these identifiers, when linked with city CCTV networks, could help identify reckless use and potential violations, enabling authorities to pursue accountability for those who break the rules.
Voices calling for caution and stricter rules
Previously, Vladimir Sokolov, head of the Pedestrian Union, described scooters in Russia as a growing risk and called for tighter regulations on their operation. He emphasized the need for more stringent controls to protect pedestrians and ensure safe shared spaces.
There has also been discussion about introducing new slow zones for electric scooters in Moscow, with policymakers considering how to balance mobility with safety in busy urban areas.
As discussions continue, supporters argue that digital tracking could improve safety, reduce misuse, and create a clear regulatory framework for the expanding market of personal mobility devices. Opponents raise concerns about privacy, civil liberties, and the potential for overreach in surveillance and enforcement. The debate reflects broader questions about how cities can adapt to new forms of urban transportation while maintaining safety, privacy, and efficiency for all residents.
Observers note that any practical implementation would require robust data protection, reliable registration infrastructure, and user-friendly registration options that minimize friction for everyday riders. The outcome will likely hinge on finding a workable compromise that enhances safety and accountability without creating excessive administrative burdens or privacy concerns for individuals who rely on electric scooters for daily travel.