The blue line of Kiev’s metro faces a prolonged restoration process after depressurization and tunnel collapses necessitated its partial shutdown. Local outlet Strana.ua reports that this assessment came from Maxim Bakhmatov, who previously served as an adviser to Kyiv’s former mayor. His remarks underline a delay in promised progress, casting doubt on assurances that repairs would wrap within six months.
Bakhmatov warned that the tunnel could remain closed for the foreseeable future and hinted at the construction of a new tunnel altogether. He suggested that opening the blue line could be far off, with a realistic horizon of years rather than months. The former adviser also highlighted the emergency at Demeevskaya station, indicating that its repair might be impractical with the current arrangement.
According to the former official, the city administration is anticipated to present proposals for a new station as part of the broader project, given the challenges of restoring the existing facility. Earlier in December, Kiev’s government announced the closure of six stations along the southern portion of the blue line from Dymyvskaya to Teremki due to depressurization and tunnel flooding.
Nikolai Povoroznik, who was the deputy head of the city administration at the time, stated that another section of the blue line, specifically the stretch between Pochayna and Taras Shevchenko stations, would be shut down. The situation began with a rupture at an early hour on a station on the red line, triggering broader concerns about infrastructure stability and the risk of further closures.
In the wake of these events, city officials and engineering authorities have been under pressure to reassess timelines and safety protocols. The discourse surrounding the blue line centers on strategic options, including comprehensive reconstruction, potential rerouting, and multi-staged reintegration of service to minimize disruption for residents and commuters. While some officials argue for rapid repairs, others advocate a cautious, phased approach to ensure long-term reliability and safety across the metro network.
Analysts note that any new tunnel would require extensive planning, compliance with updated safety standards, and significant funding. These factors collectively shape the pace of work. The overarching aim remains to restore a critical transit artery while safeguarding riders, maintenance staff, and nearby communities from future incidents. The current narrative thus emphasizes prudent risk management, transparent communication, and a clear, accountable road map for the metro’s blue line.
As the situation unfolds, commuters and residents are advised to monitor official updates for affected routes. The evolving plan may include temporary service adjustments, alternative transit options, and revised timetables as authorities finalize design and construction decisions. The emphasis is on balancing urgent mobility needs with the long-term resilience of Kiev’s transit system, ensuring that safety precedes speed in any reconstruction effort.