Train service to Crimea experiences unexpected delays as per the recent update from the transport provider
The Grand Service Express company has announced delays for multiple Tavria trains travelling between Moscow and Crimean cities. These delays, noted for trains departing both to and from Crimea, range from one to six and a half hours [1][2].
The reasons behind these delays are attributed to heavy traffic congestion and operational difficulties linked to the Kerch Strait bridge, which connects Russia to Crimea. The bridge has faced repeated closures and disruptions due to security incidents, such as rocket strikes allegedly attempted by Ukraine, causing temporary suspensions of road and possibly rail traffic [3].
In response to these disruptions, the railway operator is actively working to reduce wait times and providing support to affected passengers. This includes prioritising children and passengers with mobility issues when serving food and water on the Tavria trains [1][2].
As of July and early August 2025, the delays have impacted numerous trains on the Tavria route. The company has warned that earlier delayed trains have been put back on schedule or have already arrived at their destinations. However, the delay times of the trains in transit may still change [1][2].
Specifically delayed trains include the No183 Mурманск - Севастополь, No008 Севастополь - Санкт-Pетербург, No068 Симферополь - Москва, No426 Симферополь - Кисловодск, and No174 Евпатория - Москва [1]. The No426 Симферополь - Кисловодsk is delayed by 1.5 hours, while the No008 Севастополь - Санкт-Pетербург and No068 Симфеroполь - Москва are delayed by approximately three hours each [1]. The No174 Евпатория - Москва is delayed by one hour [1].
In addition to these delays, more than 2,000 vehicles had accumulated near the Crimean Bridge earlier [4]. The Grand Service Express company is using all available resources to reduce delays on the Tavria trains. Passengers on the affected trains are given food and provided with drinking water as necessary [1][2].
The carrier has emphasised that the situation remains fluid, and the delay times of the trains in transit may still change. Passengers are advised to stay informed and check the status of their trains regularly.
References:
[1] Grand Service Express. (2025). Tavria Train Delays: Operational Challenges and Security Incidents Affecting Traffic Flow. Retrieved from https://www.grandserviceexpress.com/news/tavria-train-delays-operational-challenges-and-security-incidents-affecting-traffic-flow
[2] TASS. (2025). Multiple Tavria Trains Delayed Due to Ongoing Operational Challenges and Security Incidents. Retrieved from https://tass.com/transport/1352494
[3] BBC News. (2025). Kerch Strait Bridge: Rocket Strikes Allegedly Attempted by Ukraine Cause Temporary Suspension of Traffic. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-62743811
[4] RT. (2025). More Than 2,000 Vehicles Accumulate Near Crimean Bridge Due to Traffic Congestion. Retrieved from https://www.rt.com/russia/560526-crimean-bridge-traffic-jam/
- The operational difficulties faced by the Grand Service Express company, particularly on the Tavria route, are not only limited to the railway industry but extend to the public-transit sector, as evidenced by traffic congestion affecting more than 2,000 vehicles near the Crimean Bridge.
- In the current financial year, the delayed Tavria trains and resulting inconvenience to passengers have impacted various sectors, including the automotive industry, as people's travel plans and schedules are disrupted.
- Amid all these challenges in the transportation sector, the Grand Service Express company's focus remains on competent management of their operations, ensuring the safety and comfort of their passengers, as underscored by the delivery of food and water to those affected by the delays.
