Strategic Corridor Plans to Ease Summer Traffic on Russia’s M-4 Don
Every summer, travel surges as holiday routes become the busiest. An expert in policy studies suggests establishing temporary corridors to relieve congestion on major highways. The proposal, sent to the head of the Ministry of Transport, outlines practical steps to smooth traffic along the M-4 Don and across popular vacation corridors. The communication was shared with the public through a formal letter.
During peak holiday months, the load on the M-4 Don highway increases as people drive from major cities toward destinations in the Caucasus, the Krasnodar region, Crimea, and other seaside locations. The heaviest volumes typically occur in July and August, when a large number of private vehicles head south in a short period. This seasonal spike often leaves travelers sitting in overheating cars for extended periods.
The analyst argues that temporary corridors could alleviate this pressure by offering toll discounts to car owners from specific regions. Under the plan, drivers would receive a 50 percent reduction on toll sections of the M-4 during designated weeks. For instance, during the first week of July and August, vehicles from the Central Federal District would be eligible, followed by eligibility for drivers from the North-Western Federal District, and so on. The aim is to provide clear incentives that encourage staggered travel and reduce bottlenecks.
Advocates believe this approach could direct traffic more efficiently and lower congestion on heavily used segments. The proposal urges the transport authority to consider implementing such corridors during the peak summer period when mass resort traffic is at its highest.
Last summer saw significant traffic delays on the M-4 as holiday traffic streamed toward the Black Sea. Congestion stretched along the coast, impacting travel times from Sochi onward. Authorities have acknowledged the need to improve roadside services for auto tourists, emphasizing the expansion of support networks to help travelers during peak seasons.