Restrictions during May holidays in Moscow: What to expect
Living in Lockdown: Russia's Capital Imposes Restrictions ahead of Victory Day Anniversary
Prepare for some serious limitations on your digital and physical world, Moscow and other Russian cities are looking at a serious crackdown on internet, mobile communications, various online services, and transportation until May 10. As authorities ramp up security measures, they want you to understand it's all for a good cause.
The Great Digital Darkness approaching
From May 7 to 9, you might notice some hiccups in mobile internet service. A message to this effect has already been sent to subscribers of one mobile operator. Don't worry, it's not just a tech glitch, but simply limitations in operation for a valid reason, as explained by Dmitry Peskov, the spokesperson for the President of Russia.
So, expect some restraints on using your mobile device for apps like taxi ordering and food delivery. To add to your digital woes, Russia's foremost food delivery services in Moscow have warned that some features might be out of reach due to connectivity problems.
But hey, the safety of citizens is more important than everyday comfort, as stated by Anton Nemkin, a State Duma deputy. If you're planning a lavish dinner or an urgent food order, better get it sorted May 6 to avoid the chaos!
Banking Operations and Marketplaces on the Ropes
Sberbank and VTB have voiced concerns regarding potential problems with ATMs, card payment terminals, and operations using the Faster Payments System (FPS) during this period of restrictions. If you're relying on credit or debit cards, it might be safer to have some cash on hand.
The "Moscow" agency advises users to take photos of QR codes to place an order during a mobile internet outage or to consider visiting another day.
On the Move might get tough
City authorities have announced that on May 9, from 5:00 until the end of events, traffic will be closed on key roadways, making commuting a challenge. Additionally, some underground passages, including Tverskaya Street and Novy Arbat, will also be out of bounds.
Transportation Troubles
Expect some partial closures in Moscow's transport system on May 7 and 9. Some metro stations will also be closed for exits but remain open for entry and transfers. Possible restrictions may also apply at other central stations. Consider topping up your Troika card before the holidays, as payment issues may arise.
It's not just Moscow that's standing still. St. Petersburg, Chuvashia, Cheboksary, Tver, and Voronezh regions are also rolling out similar restrictions, so it's time to readjust your travel plans.
While it's a temporary inconvenience, these measures are intended to ensure the safety of all participants during the significant 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.
Cheers, Your Friendly Assistant
Insights:
- Authorities in Russia are beefing up security measures to ensure a safe and orderly celebration of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, particularly for the May 9 parade.
- These measures include restrictions on internet, mobile communication, transportation, and banking operations in Moscow and other cities, primarily as preventive protection against possible malicious activities and to facilitate secure movement for event participants.
- The restrictions are likely to cause some temporary inconvenience for residents and tourists, affecting their digital connectivity, commuting, and access to services during the May 7-9 period.
- The Russian government's priority in implementing these restrictions is to maintain order, security, and ensure the integrity and safety of the commemorations, showcasing a significant national event.
- For a few days, mobile internet service might experience hiccups from May 7 to 9 in line with restrictions imposed by authorities in Moscow.
- These restrictions on mobile communication also impact services like taxi ordering, food delivery, and other online apps.
- Some features in Russia's foremost food delivery services in Moscow might become unavailable due to connectivity problems during this period.
- Sberbank and VTB have expressed concerns about potential issues with ATMs, card payment terminals, and operations using the Faster Payments System during the restrictions.
- As a precaution, it's advisable to carry some cash on hand to avoid problems with credit or debit cards.
- On May 9, key roadways in Moscow will be closed from 5:00 until the end of events, making commuting challenging.
- Some underground passages, including Tverskaya Street and Novy Arbat, will also be off-limits for public-transit during the celebrations.
- Partial closures are anticipated in Moscow's transport system on May 7 and 9, impacting metro stations and routes.
- Similar restrictions are being implemented in St. Petersburg, Chuvashia, Cheboksary, Tver, and Voronezh regions, impacting travel plans.
- The banking-and-insurance sector, fintech, retail (including shopping activities), and crime-and-justice may also be affected by these restrictions as they are intended to maintain order, security, and ensure the safety of all participants during the significant 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.
