ROAD REPORT: RUSSIAN FEDERATION

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO…

„ Drive defensively. Driving regulations are strict, but residents often break these regulations. „ Roads and vehicles are often poorly maintained. „ Inclement weather and a lack of routine maintenance „ of goods by trucks is expected to increase

of both roads and vehicles make road conditions highly 40% from 2002 to 2015. variable. „ Road crashes are common. Both drivers and

„ Construction of new roads is not keeping pace with the pedestrians must exercise extreme caution. rapidly growing vehicle fleet. „ There are 24.6 fatalities per 100,000 population in „ The number of vehicles has increased over 3 fold in the , compared to 14.6 in the U.S., 10.1 in France past decade. Motorization levels are expected to and 5.9 in Sweden. continue to increase rapidly. „ There are 14 road fatalities per 10,000 motor vehicles, „ New car sales rose 35% in 2007. In 2008, Russia has compared to 2.0 in the U.S. and 1.0 in the U.K. become the largest market for new cars in Europe.

ROAD REALITIES DRIVER BEHAVIORS „ Common factors in road crashes include speeding, GENERAL ROAD CONDITIONS driving irresponsibly, driving under the influence of „ There are 700,000 km of inter-city roads, of which alcohol, failure to wear seatbelts and inadequate law 50,000 are federal highways; and there are 540,000 of enforcement. Inadequate infrastructure is also urban roads. contributes to road crashes. „ The road network is more developed in European „ Drivers frequently pass on the right, tailgate, cross solid Russia than in Asian Russia. Asian Russia (Northern lines or make illegal U-turns. They often fail to use turn and Far Eastern Russia) accounts for 60% of Russia’s signals, yield right of way, slow down to let others pass territory, yet has only 15.5% of total roads. Road or dim high beams for oncoming traffic. density in European Russia is only one-eighth that of „ Few people use seat belts. Poland, one-seventh that of and one-half that of , and . „ Many drivers have never passed drivers’ tests. „ Over 40,000 Russian towns and villages have poor or „ Some residents drive with no driver’s license or buy a no access to the main road network. The number of driver’s license from officials. towns inaccessible by road is increasing, due to „ Driver training is inadequate. inadequate road maintenance. „ Be prepared to stop immediately when a traffic light „ 80% of Russia’s local roads need major repairs. turns to amber, as residents tend to anticipate the green o New roads do not always meet European standards. light.

„ Expenses related to road crashes consume about 2.5% of Russia’s GDP.

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„ The government has adopted a program to expand the „ From 2000 to 2004, road crash fatalities increased 13%, highway network, double the number of roads that while injuries increased 45%. meet European standards, improve road maintenance „ In 2004, there were 66 road fatalities per 10,000 and increase road safety over the next 20 years. vehicles and 277 fatalities per 100,000 population. CURRENT STATE OF THE ROAD NETWORK: „ The majority of road crashes are car-pedestrian „ About 8% of public roads are classified as federal roads. crashes, head-on or rear-end crashes or rollover o Federal roads link with capitals of other crashes. nations and capitals of other members of the Russian „ Drivers violating traffic law is a factor in over 75% of Federation. road crashes. o Federal roads carry 45-50% of all cargo. o 33% were speeding. o 90% of federal roads are paved, 53% need repairs; o 10% were driving on the wrong side of the road. 37% do not meet required standards. o 20% were driving under the influence of alcohol. o Federal roads include 72 wooden bridges, all of which o 25% lacked a driver’s license. need repairs. o Many vehicles are in poor condition. About 50% of „ About 92% of public roads are regional (territorial) vehicles are over 10 years old. Many vehicles are roads, linking cities and towns in each region. imported from Japan and have the steering wheel on o 83% of these roads are paved. Many need repairs. the right. o The network includes 7421 wooden bridges; all of „ Only 75% of roads have road signs. 65% of existing which need repairs. signs do not meet federal standards. „ Road characteristics that can cause bottlenecks: „ There are few sidewalks. o Numerous, grade level railway crossings „ Road lighting and traffic lights often do not work. o Narrow bridges THE BARENTS -ARCTIC TRANSPORT AREA (INCLUDES NORTHERN SCANDINAVIA AND RUSSIA) o Main roads passing through cities and towns „ Key cities where roads are being upgraded are „ Many roads are poorly lit, and only 85% have road Murmansk, , and . signs. „ Roads in the Russian section are in poor condition. „ Signs on tourist routes are generally in Latin script. Harsh weather conditions contribute to the difficulty of „ Road construction sites are not always well marked. and maintaining highways and roads. „ It rains frequently in Russia and Siberia. Roads are „ Distances between cities are great. Carry spare fuel. often very slick when wet. THE MURMANSK REGION „ Steadily increasing numbers of heavy goods vehicles „ Most roads in this region are dirt or are paved with contributes to high pollution levels on highways. crushed stone and gravel. „ Newer roads may have few restaurants, motels, gas „ Between Kandalaksha-Murmansk and Apatity- stations or auto repair shops. Service vehicle before Koashva, the M-18 highway is paved with asphalt or leaving. Take basic spare parts: an extra fan belt, fuses, concrete with a crushed stone and gravel base. replacement bulbs and needed tools. THE KARELIA REPUBLIC „ High levels of radioactive contamination may an issue „ Most of the road network is in poor condition. in a few areas, due to inadequate shielding of older Traveling by road is difficult, especially in winter and nuclear reactors. during rainy seasons. SAKHALIN , IN THE SEA OF OKHOTSK OFF THE COAST OF SIBERIA: „ The St. Petersburg-Murmansk Motorway (M18) is the only federal highway in Karelia. There are two other „ The road network is inadequate to handle the rapid main transport routes: Kochkoma-Kostomuksha- growth in population and number of vehicles that Lutta-Vartius on the Finnish border and Sortavala to occurred after discovery of oil and gas deposits in 2001. Vartsila-Niirala, also on the Finnish border.

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„ Road conditions are often much rougher than those THE ALTAY MOUNTAINS, KHAKASSIA AND TUVA, typical in western countries. Be alert for stones, well USSURILAND covers and bumpy stretches. „ Populated areas are compact; the road system is well „ Take spare tires, a tire repair kit, a hand pump and a developed within and near cities. towing service number. „ Distances between villages and towns are somewhat „ Fuel may be difficult to find. Take a spare fuel can; less than in other regions. unleaded fuel is not available. „ Rental cars are available in , SIBERIA AND THE RUSSIAN FAR EAST and Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, from hotels with service bureaus, or from Intourist. „ Driving regulations are the same as in European Russia. „ transport generally is limited to suburban routes, local links and city-to- links. Distances between „ Driving conditions are very different than in the cities are too great, and the roads are either lacking or European areas of Russia. Distances between cities too poor to make bus service practical. often are vast. Traveling from Irkutsk to Khabarovsk is about the same distance as London to Cairo. RESTRICTED AREAS „ Local roads tend to be unpaved, very rough and full of „ Russia has several closed cities and regions. Attempting potholes. Finding gas or spare parts can be difficult. to enter these areas without prior authorization can result in arrest, fines, and/or deportation. „ Harsh weather conditions increase the cost of road construction. „ List all areas to be visited on your visa application. Register with authorities at each destination upon „ Some roads are winter roads only and are impassible arrival. when the ground thaws. Winter roads are not indicated on maps. Ask residents about year-round routes. „ Check with your sponsor, hotel or the Russian Federal Migration Service before traveling to unfamiliar cities „ Often no bridges are available for crossing the rivers; and towns. crossing is only possible where trucks ford the river. CLOSED CITIES „ Existing bridges are not well maintained, and some are „ Some cities generally are not open to tourists. Prior not safe to cross. Erosion sometimes creates a large gap authorization is required to visit. Check with sponsor, between the road surface and bridge surface. hotel or nearest Russian visa and passport office „ Transcontinental highway: A narrow, two-lane road (OVIR) for approval to visit a city if not sure whether with shoulders that are seldom paved and generally no the city is open or closed. Failure to obtain proper lane markings. authorization may result in fines, court hearings and/or „ Bicycles and horse-drawn carts share the road with deportation. motorized vehicles. Extremely large potholes, wandering livestock, sections of unpaved road, and URBAN TRAVEL jagged rocks scattered on the road surface make driving „ Many roads are poorly maintained. difficult and can cause vehicle damage. „ Avoid rush hour if possible. „ Some cities have a small fleet of Hungarian-made while other buses resemble converted tractors or „ One-way streets sometimes make getting around chicken coups on wheels. difficult. „ are the cheapest and most comfortable way to „ Many roads are one-way or do not permit left-hand get around. Foreigners are no longer restricted to turns. Navigating may be difficult in some cities. specific routes or trains. No trains exist in northern „ Some drivers swerve dangerously from lane to lane on Siberia. wide , ignoring painted lanes and other „ Planes are used extensively for inner-city travel. Most drivers’ signaled intentions. towns have a small airport or landing strip. When planning a journey involving multiple destinations, book each destination in advance.

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„ It is easy to get lost when entering or leaving a city. „ Be alert for pulling out into traffic from a Many street names have been changed from their stop. Trolleybuses and public buses have right of way former Soviet names, but residents often still use the when pulling out from stops in residential areas. old names. Signs with the new names have not always drivers are required to make sure that other been erected and older maps still carry former names. drivers yield right of way to him and that his maneuver Traffic lights often are obscured, and sign posts are is safe. inadequate. „ Vehicles have the right of way over pedestrians. „ have the right of way. drivers may drive „ On-street parking usually is readily available, but car recklessly. theft is common. Some hotels provide secure parking „ Be alert for tram lines that have buckled the road lots. surface.

MOSCOW

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION Traffic jams are common on work days. The and rivers flow through the city. Most Drivers frequently disobey the speed limit and lane tourist sights are on the northern bank of the Moskva markings and run red lights. Drivers may drive while River. under the influence of alcohol or drive in the wrong lane, Red Square and the Kremlin are in city center. against oncoming traffic. Taxis can be hailed or picked up at taxi ranks. Taxis More than 12% of road crashes occur in Moscow. generally are metered, but drivers often are open to High-speed chases by police are common. bargaining. Proceed only when traffic lights are green. Right and left Metro service is excellent. Metro stations are well turns can only be made on arrows. distributed in the suburbs and are within 10 minutes The system of fines for violating traffic regulations is walking distance of most points in the city center. perehod inadequate and does not serve as a deterrent. Underground pedestrian passageways ( ) connect some stations. Using non-official cabs (privately owned vehicles) is not recommended for security reasons. Sheremetyevo International Airport, north of city center, Phone: +7 495 232-65-65. Shuttle bus service links the Trans-European Corridors near the city: airport’s terminals. This airport is closest to city center. E30, linking Moscow to Germany, Poland or Bielarussia. Transport options to or from city center: E22, linking , the capital of Latvia, to Moscow. o Express trains from Savyolovsky Station. Run on the E18, linking Finland, St. Petersburg, Novgorod and hour from 7-11am and 2-10pm. On weekends, also Moscow. The road is also known as the Russian Federal runs at 1 pm. Highway M-10. Traffic is generally heavy. o Metro from Rechnoi Vokzal or Planernaya stations Moscow’s ring roads: run to the airport from northern sections of the city. Ring (Bulvarnoye Kolco), the innermost ring o Buses (#851 from Rechnoy Vokzal station and #817 road. from Planernaya station). Buses run about every 15- (Sadovoe Koltso), the middle ring. 30 minutes. Traffic jams often lengthen the trip. Third Ring, heavily traveled. o () are shared taxis; also run Moscow (“MKAD”), surrounds the city. from Rechnoy Vokzal and Planernaya stations. Fourth Ring, to be built between the Third Ring and Traffic jams are slightly less frequent from . Planernaya station. Avoid using when Leningradskoye Shosse, the main road leading to you have heavy luggage. Sheremetyevo International Airport, is often very o Official taxis are available at a taxi kiosk. to city congested. center are fixed. Private taxis also provide transport; fares are often high.

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MOSCOW (CONTINUED)

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION There are nine stations, all near city center. Most Domodedovo International Airport, south of city center. stations offer long-distance and local train service. Phone: +7 495 933-66-66. Transport links to city center Savyolovsky Station only offers local train service. are better than at Sheremetyevo International Airport. Smaller : However, it is further from city center than other airports. Vnukovo Airport, southwest of city center. Transport options to or from city center: Transport options to or from city center: o AreoExpress train from Paveletsky . o Bus 611 or a Marshrutka to Yugo-Zapadnaya metro Trains leave on the hour from 6am. During rush station. Express buses link Vnukovo and hours, trains run on the half hour. Some trains run to Domodedovo airports. Run about every 90 minutes. Kurskaya . Express trains from Belorusskaya station also runs to the airport. o Express train from Kievsky Train Station. Run on the hour during peak travel times; about every 4 hours o When leaving the airport, regular as well as express other times. trains to the city leave from the same platform. Ask assistance to find right train. , southeast of city center. A regional airport; southeast of city center. o Bus 405 and shuttle buses run from Domodedovskaya metro station to the airport. No Transport options to city center: Electric ("") service at night. train from Kazansky Train Station. Runs to Bykovo Station near the airport. o Official taxis are available at a taxi kiosk. Fares to city center are fixed, but are high. Private taxis also provide transport; fares are often higher than for an official taxi. o Express bus service between Domodedovo and Vnukovo airports. Tourist information for Moscow: phone: 495-956-4666 or call Intourist, phone: 495-578-5971.

ST. PETERSBURG

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION The city is a between Russia and Eastern and The historic city center is easily explored on foot. Western Europe, Baltic and Nordic countries. o Admiralty and Konnogvardeysky Avenue, The road, rail and air transport network is well developed. Nevsky and Liteyny Avenues, Birzhevaya and Traffic jams are common on main roads, especially where Vladimirskaya Squares and associated sidewalks have they enter the city. Downtown areas and city bridges tend been upgraded.

to be congested, especially on weekends. o Pedestrian only streets include Malaya Heavy goods vehicles account for about 10% of traffic. Konnyushennaya and Malaya Sadovaya. The city is located on 42 islands at an estuary of the River o Truda Square has been reconstructed. Sennaya, Neva on the Gulf of Finland. There are numerous canals Suvorovskayas and Konnyushennaya squares will be and bridges. Traffic backups are common near main upgraded. bridges. Buses and trolleybuses provide transport. Fares are low; Drivers may drive recklessly. service is frequent. Buy ticket on the bus from the Driving is difficult due to poor road conditions and erratic conductor or driver. signage. Buses and trolleybuses are often over crowded on main Main streets are heavily traveled. Rapid growth in vehicle routes during rush hour. Some buses have routes to the ownership further increases congestion. suburbs or surrounding cities.

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ST. PETERSBURG (CONTINUED)

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION Many roads are being upgraded. Privately-run mini-buses ('Marashrukha') provide transport. The Neva River divides the city into two sections. All Pay driver when . They operate are fixed routes, but bridges across the river are drawn up at night from there are no fixed stops. To board, flag oncoming . To about 1:45 am to 5:15 am, except in winter. Closing get off, say, “Ostanavites pazhaluista!” times vary; check schedule for bridges you need to use. The main is near a metro station, a few miles from (The Big Obukhovski Bridge on the Ring Highway is city center. not drawn up.) Severe floods may occur, most often in Trams may be slow during rush hour. Some routes were fall. removed from city center, due to traffic conflicts. Flood control project: A dam across the Gulf of Finland Arrange taxi transport through your hotel. is to be completed in 2010. The dam will keep storm o Route taxis (marshrutka) are 14-20 passenger vans. They surges from the Baltic Sea from reaching the city and are usually white or yellow and have a letter “K” and a causing severe floods. When completed, the dam will route number (K14) on their route number plate. serve as the final link in the city’s Ring Road. o Marshrutka drivers may speed or drive recklessly. Drivers Secondary streets are often narrow and have parking on are often illegal immigrants and do not speak Russian both sides. Traffic jams are common during rush well. hours. Metro is not as extensive as in Moscow, but is very efficient. There is a high volume of through-traffic. Trains run every three minutes during rush hour. Purchase In winter, heavy snows may increase . tickets at 'Kassa' offices at metro stations. Metro cars may be Most public transportation services close at night. very crowded during rush hour. Metro stations are closed from about 12:30 am to 5:40 Metro cars have a metro route map with most station names in am. Check schedule for specific stations. Taxis are the Latin alphabet. Names on station walls are in Cyrillic. available 24/7. Fares increase sharply at night. Metro is very crowded during rush hour. Due to low elevation and its location on the Neva Bay, Trains provide transport within the city and to surrounding severe floods have occurred. Floods are most common communities and countries. Train stations: Baltiysky, in fall. Finlyandsky, Ladozhsky, Moskovsky and Vitebsky. There are Flood control project: A dam across the Gulf of Finland five railway stations. is to be completed in 2010. The dam should keep storm Tourist police, phone: +7 812 764 9787/278 3014. surges from the Baltic Sea from reaching the city and Pulkova-1 and -2 International Airports: Pulkovo-1 (Terminal causing severe floods. When completed, the dam will 1) is 20 km (12 m) south of city center; mostly serves serve as the final link in the city’s Ring Road. domestic flights and flights to CSI (Commonwealth of Due to the city’s location in the far north, there is no Independent States) countries. Pulkovo-2 (Terminal 1) is 17 true night from mid-April to mid-August. Avoid km (11 m) south of city center; serves international flights. driving for extended times during these “longer” days. o Free shuttle buses provide transport between the Residents often use “gypsy cabs” (private vehicles, not terminals. licensed as taxis). However, using them is risky for tourists, especially women traveling alone. Crimes o Rapid metro-buses (airport buses) provide transport to involving “gypsy cabs” are among the most common city center’s largest underground metro stations crimes against western tourists in St. Petersburg. (Moskovskaya, Tekhnologichesky Institut and Pushkinskaya). Buses depart every 20-30 minutes. City’s website (in English): www.st-petersburg.ru/en/. o City buses provide transport to Moskovskaya metro station. Shuttles (“Marshrutka” minibuses) provide transport to metro stations and Moskovsky and Ladozhsky train stations.

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ST. PETERSBURG (CONTINUED)

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION o Pulkovo Taxi provides service to the city. Other taxi companies and shared taxis also provide transport. Fax a reliable taxi company a day before your arrival and arrange taxi service. Some hotels provide van services for their guests. o Facilities for handicapped travelers are available. Inform of any requirements for special assistance prior to arrival time.

YEKATERINBURG

CONDITIONS USEFUL INFORMATION Traffic is congested in city center. One of Russia’s largest cities; located in the Ural Mountains Getting around by car can be difficult. on the Europe-Asia border. Also known as Ekaterinburg. Travel by bus or trolleybuses may be slow in rush hour. Vaynera Street is a pedestrian only shopping street in city Trams are less affected by traffic jams. center. Winters are longer and colder than in western section of Public transportation is well developed. Overcrowding is European Russia. Snowfalls are heavy. common. Fares are low. Service is efficient. o Be alert for mud on street surfaces when snow Buses are the main form of . cover is melting (April-May). Patches of mud create Tram network is extensive. Fares are reasonable; service is slippery road conditions. regular. Trams are heavily used by residents, overcrowding is

o Trolley buses (electric buses) cannot run when common. Purchase ticket after boarding. temperatures drop below freezing. Route taxis (minivans) provide the fastest transport. They generally run on specific routes, but do not have specific stops. Drivers stop where passengers request. Route taxis can be hailed. Metro runs from city center to Uralmash, an industrial area south of the city. Metro ends near the main railway station. Fares are inexpensive. The city is a major stop on the Trans-Siberian Railway. Daily train service is available to Moscow and many other Russian cities. Regional trains provide transport to larger cities in the Ural region.

RURAL TRAVEL „ Permafrost is common in many areas of Siberia. Some „ Road conditions may be poor outside major cities. roads may be open in winter, but closed after spring Roads are poorly maintained. Many roads are unpaved. thaw. „ Freely wandering livestock may cross the road anytime of the day. NIGHT TRAVEL „ Be alert for deep potholes. When wooden barricades „ Traveling at night is not recommended, especially are not available, deeper potholes may be marked with outside of major cities. a pile of stones or tree branches. „ Never park near a road and sleep in your vehicle.

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„ Factors that increase road risk at night: Day, Feb. 23; International Women's Day, Mar. 8; o Cars often lack brake lights and may have only one Easter, date varies; Spring and Labor Day, May 1, headlight. Victory in Europe Day, May 9; Day of Russia, June 12; Day of National Unity, Nov. 4; Christmas, Dec. 25. o Drivers rarely turn on headlights until it is very dark.

o Bicycles seldom have reflectors or lights. POLICE ENFORCEMENT o Construction sites and stranded vehicles are often „ In July 2008, federal law approved using traffic cameras unmarked. to identify law violations and reduce crime. o Drivers driving while under the influence of alcohol. „ Roadside checkpoints are commonplace. Police o The risk of robbery is higher at night, especially if randomly stop vehicles to check documents. Always you are traveling alone. carry originals or photocopies of passports and registered visas. Failing to have them can result in PEDESTRIAN TRAVEL detention and/or heavy fines. „ About 22% of drivers in larger cities and 32% of drivers „ Most checkpoints are legitimate. However, some traffic in smaller cities fail to yield to pedestrians in police try to impose “fines” on travelers. crosswalks. „ Few officers are convicted for corrupt practices or „ Safe pedestrian walkways are often lacking. accepting bribes. „ Pedestrians increase road crash risk by failing to obey „ Inspection of cars is often lax. traffic regulations, crossing without looking for „ Drivers may be pulled over at night on suspicion of oncoming traffic, walking out between cars to cross driving while under the influence just because they are and underestimating traffic speed. on the road. „ Pedestrians are involved in 60% of urban road crashes. „ The State Automobile Inspectorate (GIBDD) is 40% of road fatalities on the island are pedestrians. authorized to stop cars and issue immediate fines. If drivers fail to stop, officers have the authority to shoot SEASONAL TRAVEL at your car. „ In spring, roads can be difficult to navigate due to „ There is a permanent GIBDD checkpoint at the border heavy mud during spring thaws and autumn rains. of every Russian city and many Russian towns. GIBDD During these seasons, unpaved roads generally are officers sometimes intimidate foreigners. If you want to impassible. In rural areas, roads can be closed for up to dispute the charges, take the matter to the head of the a month. local GIBDD station. „ In Siberia and some parts of European Russia, spring „ Criminals sometimes pose as GIBDD officers. If an floods and summer or autumn forest fires may occur. officer has a gun, comply with his requests, but get his „ On Sakhalin Island, winter is severe and lasts about 6 badge number and report the incident to the GIBDD in months. Road crash rates are highest in summer. the next town. Complaints generally are treated with concern. „ In Moscow and the surrounding area, winter is long „ and severe. Snow and ice are prevalent from October to Foreigners are often victims of harassment or extortion March. Rainfall peaks during July and August. by police and other officials. Probable cause is not required for police to stop, question or detain people. „ In the Mountains, heavy rain and mudslides often wash away bridges and block roads and tunnels. o If stopped, record officer’s name, badge number and patrol car number, unless it seems unsafe to do so. „ In the Murmansk region, travel is more difficult on

most dirt and crushed-stone/gravel paved roads in o Recording where the stop occurred may help autumn and spring. The spring “bad road” season authorities identify the perpetrators. Authorities are begins when the snow starts to melt (mid-April or late concerned about such incidents and cooperate with May to mid-June). investigations of these cases. „ Public holidays: New Year's Day, Jan. 1; Russian o Report the incident to the U.S. Embassy or nearest Orthodox Christmas, Jan. 7-8; Protector of Motherland Consulate General.

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„ Some business activities, considered normal in western „ An intensive road safety campaign is reducing road nations, are illegal or raise suspicion of espionage in fatalities and injuries on Sakhalin Island. The campaign Russia. Any commercial activity involving Russian includes education and mass media campaigns, military-industrial enterprises, such as research tougher laws and increased penalties for driving institutes, production facilities, design bureaus and violations. other high level, government-related technology groups are subject to investigation.

ROAD REGULATIONS „ Traffic drives on the right side of the road. introduces a general rule: vehicles which pull into a „ Visitors may drive for up to 60 days with a valid U.S. roundabout have the right of way (this is opposite to driver’s and a notarized Russian translation of it. the European practise and dangerous for non- residents). „ While not required, getting an international driving permit (IDP) is recommended, especially if traveling in „ Still if certain directions are mainstream this rule is more remote areas of Russia. An IDP is a legal often overwritten by priority signs which are put on the identification document that translates driving license same pile below the abovementioned road sign. information into 11 languages, including English, and „ A flashing green light means the light is about to turn can only be used as a supplement to a valid driving yellow and then red. A flashing yellow light means license. Contact AAA at www.aaa.com. there are no traffic lights at the upcoming . „ Speed limits: „ In roundabouts, the car on the right has the right of o Urban areas 60 km/h (37 mph) way, even if you are already in the circle. „ o Rural areas 90 km/h (55 mph) Using a hand-held cellular phone while driving is illegal. Cellular phones with earpieces and handless o Motorways 100 km/h (62 mph) microphones are permitted. „ Foreign visitors holding a driver’s license for less than 2 „ A power of attorney (preferably notarized) is required years are not permitted to exceed 70 km/h. in order to drive someone else’s vehicle. „ The maximum blood alcohol content level has been „ Be sure your car insurance covers traveling in raised from zero to 0.03. Drivers whose blood alcohol European Russia and Asian-Russia when going to both content exceeds 0.03 may be detained until sober. regions. „ Roundabout crossings are marked with a special sign (blue plate with 3 white circled arrows) which

ROAD WATCH ROAD INFORMATION

ROAD CONDITIONS AND USEFUL INFORMATION

TRANS-SIBERIAN HIGHWAY A network of federal highways that cross Russian from St. Petersburg on Baltic Sea in the east to Vladivostok on the Japan Sea in the west. The route is known as the AH6 in the Asian Highway Network. One section is part of European route E30. The section through consists of 7 federal highways, one of which is the Amur Highway (links Chita and Khabarovsk). The Amur Highway, the only Trans-Siberian Highway section still under construction. Should be open in 2010.

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ROAD CONDITIONS AND USEFUL INFORMATION

E105 The road is part of the International E-road network and one of the main roads in Europe. Begins in Kirkenes, Norway and follows the M18, M10 and M2 in Russia and the M18 in the Ukraine, ending in , Ukraine. Some cities on its route include Kirkenes, Murmansk, Kandalaksha, , Novgorod, , Moscow, Kharikiv, and Yalta. The road may be closed due to heavy snows or rains. Long delays may occur at the border crossing. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, the road is closed to vehicles with a foreign registration.

LENA HIGHWAY (PART OF The M56 links Moscow and Yakutsk in the Sakha (Yakutia) Republic. The last 600 M56) miles to Yakutsk is known as the Lena Highway. This section is unpaved, but in good condition in winter. When summer rains come, the road is impassible. Even large trucks get stuck in the deep layer of mud.

TRANS-CAUCASIAN HIGHWAY Mountainous road that crosses the Greater Caucasus Mountains through the Roki Tunnel. Links North Ossetia-Alania and South Ossetia with Russia and . In winter the road often closes due to the danger of avalanches. Access to the Abkhazia and South Ossetia sections of the road is uncertain, due to current political strife. Consult the U.S. Embassy in Russia about traveling on these portions of the road.

ROAD RECOMMENDATIONS TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS „ Most cities have an intra-city bus station (avtovokxzal), BUSES, TROLLEYS & TRAMS generally called the central bus station (tsentralnyy avtovokxzal „ Most public transport is by bus, marshrutka (mini- ). van), trolley or tram. „ Intra-city buses, trolleys, and trams tend to be „ Availability of bus service between mid-sized and overcrowded in late afternoon and on routes with larger cities and European countries has increased over limited service. the past decade. Road crashes involving buses have also „ Bus stops have a sign with an “A” (for Avtobus). Trolley increased. and tram stops have a sign with a “T”. There may also

„ Modern, comfortable Euro-2 and Euro-3 coaches be a pictorial sign, indicating what kind of stop each is. provide transport on international routes. Drivers are „ In more remote areas such as the Kola Peninsula, experienced professionals. Buses have instruments for central Karelia and southwestern Russia, buses are monitoring driver’s speed, hours driven and hours foreigners’ only public transport option. resting. The instruments’ readings are checked at „ Hitch hiking is a common means of transport in more

Russian border crossings. remote areas. Hitch hiking is not recommended, „ Express buses are available on most routes to larger especially when traveling alone or at night. European cities. Express bus passengers may not board or disembark anywhere in Poland or Belarus. TAXIS „ Marshrutka (minibuses) travel fixed routes. There are „ Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive in most no fixed stops. Hail the driver to board. Drivers will large cities. Negotiate before boarding. drop passengers wherever requested. Schedules tend to „ There are two types of taxi services in Russia: Official be erratic, and routes may be difficult to understand. taxis and privately operated taxis (“gypsy taxis”).

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„ Official taxis are generally yellow and have a large light „ Third party liability insurance that is valid in Russia is bar bearing the word “taxi” on the roof. Fares are fixed required. Can be purchased from rental agency or may and are often higher than for “gypsy taxis”. Drivers are be included in the rental fee. professionals. Taxis can be ordered by phone. o U.S. liability insurance and most U.S. collision and „ Privately operated taxis (“gypsy taxis”): Are not owned comprehensive provisions in insurance policies are by a taxi company. Drivers use their personal vehicles. not valid in Russia. Check with your agent about Fares are lower than official taxi fares. However, some coverage in Russia. drivers try to double the fare for foreigners, especially „ Other insurance options include fire and theft at airports. Agree on fare before boarding. Some insurance and Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). drivers tend to drive recklessly. “Gypsy taxis” can be Having CDW and theft insurance will cover all hailed on the street. financial responsibility for the rental vehicle in the „ Fares are generally higher for both kinds of taxis when event of a crash or theft, after the deductible is paid. traffic congestion causes delays. „ “Gypsy taxis” are more plentiful than official taxis, but MOTORCYCLES & BICYCLES are not recommended due to security concerns, „ In rural areas, road conditions vary from smooth, especially for foreigners. paved surfaces to rough, dirt surfaces. Traffic is „ Calling for a registered taxi is safer than hailing a generally light. Drivers do not tend to crowd cyclists. “gypsy” cab (a privately-owned vehicle used for However, be alert for oncoming trucks, especially those transport services) on the street. passing other trucks. Truck drivers may not stop or slow down to accommodate cyclists. „ Do not get into a taxi that already has a passenger. Check the back seat for hidden “friends” before „ Cyclists must be at least 14 years old to ride on public boarding. Be especially careful after dark. roads. „ If possible, be familiar with distance and route of „ Use caution in urban areas. Traffic tends to be heavy. intended destination. Be alert for tram line tracks. „ Few taxi drivers speak a foreign language, including „ Take spare parts for those things that are most likely to English. If possible, have your destination written in break, and take tools needed to replace them. Finding a Russian on a piece of paper. repair shop may be difficult. „ Taxis waiting outside luxury hotels or foreign-run „ Riding at night is not recommended. establishments tend to charge higher fares. „ Using trains for part of a bike trip lessens the difficulty of covering great distances. Third-class seating RENTAL CARS provides more baggage room for bikes than first- or „ Rental cars are available in many larger cities. Rental second-class seating. fees generally are high. „ Information on cycling in Russia and other nations: „ A passport, driving license and major credit card are http://tigger.uic.edu/~jfazio/internationalbike.html#Int required to rent a car. ernational. „ Read the contract’s fine print, especially items „ Taking a motorcycle into Russia is very difficult. Entry regarding insurance coverage and restrictions. Rental is most likely at the border with Finland, in Siberia near agencies with desks in hotels may not allow cars to Vladivostok and at a few points on the Chinese border. leave the city. Many major international agencies allow Cargo flights from Alaska may transport motorcycles cars to be taken anywhere in Russia. Some may restrict travel to the Moscow area. AIR TRAVEL „ Service stations are scarce in some areas. Gas is „ Domestic , certified for international flights, sometimes in short supply. Borrow a gas canister if tend to be safer. possible when traveling to more remote areas. „ Some aircraft used on domestic routes by smaller „ Rentals with guides are available. Often the charge for a airlines do not comply with international safety driver is not much greater than renting the car alone. standards.

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„ Security on domestic flights is not as high as on have gathered and places frequented by Neo-Nazis or international flights. other “skinhead” groups. o In general, tourists of darker complexion are advised TRAIN TRAVEL to travel in groups. „ Rail service is well developed in Russia. o These travelers may also be harassed by police „ Schedule information: authorities. o For trains in Russia and Ukraine: o Racially motivated attacks tend to increase near April www.poezda.net/en/. 20, the anniversary of Adolf Hitler’s birthday. o For trains in Europe (Deutsche Bahn Railway): „ CD and DVD piracy is a serious problem. Sale of http://reiseauskunft.bahn.de/bin/query.exe/en?protoc counterfeit or pirated goods is illegal. Laws against ol=http:&ld=16&newrequest=yes& infringement of intellectual property rights are vigorously enforced. Counterfeit and pirated goods are o For Trans-Siberian Railway routes: subject to seizure when brought into the U.S. www.transsib.ru/Eng/ The website includes the Russian Virtual Encyclopedia of the Trans-Siberian „ Foreigners are not targeted for terrorism. Railway. „ Unexplained acts of terrorism have occurred in larger Russian cities. Bombings have occurred at Russian CRIME & SECURITY government , hotels, tourist sites, residential „ Petty crime, assaults, and robberies are frequent. complexes and on public transportation. Americans are Incidents are most common on subways, overnight not targeted, but be alert for unusual behavior, trains, train stations, airports, markets, tourist unattended luggage in public areas, and other signs of attractions, restaurants and underground walkways. danger. „ Traveling in groups organized by reputable tour agencies Avoid demonstrations held in front of the US Embassy is safer. or Consulate Generals. „ „ Groups of children and teens have aggressively American business people commonly are targeted by attacked and robbed victims in some cities. They organized crime groups. Small businesses are swarm victims, knock them down or assault them, particularly vulnerable, but even larger businesses have often attacking those who seem vulnerable, especially been threatened with serious violence unless protection people traveling alone and elderly tourists. money is paid. Some US business people have been attacked, kidnapped and even killed. „ Foreigners have been robbed while sharing a taxi with „ strangers. Travel in , and Dagestan is not recommended, due to the lack of security in the North „ Foreigners who have been drinking are vulnerable to Caucasus. This includes the Budyonnovsky, assault and robbery. Drinks may be drugged before Levokumsky, Neftekumsky, Stepnovsky and Kurskoy victims are assaulted and robbed. in east and south Stavropol Krai regions, which border „ Car theft is common. Park in well-lit places when Chechnya and Dagestan. Have correct documentation possible and use an anti-theft system and/or alarm if and visa for your visit and comply with registration available. requirements. The ability of the U.S. Embassy to help „ Never pick up hitchhikers, due to risk of assault and in the case of an emergency is severely limited in these robbery. If they are transporting narcotics, you may be regions. arrested as an accomplice. „ Travel is not recommended in North Ossetia, „ Racial and ethnic minorities have experienced Karachai-Cherkessia and Kabardino-Balkaria unprovoked, violent harassment. In some cases, victims (including the Elbrus area), due to terrorism and were beaten and murdered. Travelers most at risk are kidnapping incidents in these regions. Consult your those of East Asian, South Asia or African descent and embassy for current security advice. those who resemble people from the Middle East or Caucasus region. Use caution areas where large crowds

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„ There are travel restrictions for foreigners in North o Street crime is increasing in St. Petersburg. Tourists Ossetia. Towns and roads that are open to tourists are often targeted. Robbing tourists at knifepoint is include: more common. o The towns of , , Alagira and „ When stopped by a police officer, ask to see his ID. Ardona „ Carry your actual passport, not a copy, at all times. o Roads connecting them: M-29, Nazran – Besland – „ St. Petersburg: ; A-301, Varkhny Lars – Vladikavkaz; R297, o Petty crime is common at metro stations or on metro Nizhny Zaramag – ; Alagir – Ardon – road M- trains. Pickpocketing is most common in Gostinyy 29 (road). Dvor Metro Station. o The road that connects Vladikavkaz with road M-29; o Armed robbery is common. Tourists and foreigners and the road connecting Vladikavkaz airport are as likely to be victims as residents. (Beslan) with road M-29. o Downtown, western and south central sections of the o Railway connections open to tourists: Nazran-Beslan- city are the safest areas. Kupchino and Kolpino Murtazovo; Vladikavkaz-Beslan; Alagir-Elkhotovo suburbs are less safe. and Gudermes--Prokhladnaya. o Street children, who make their living by begging or o Travel from Russia into Georgia and is stealing are a moderate problem. If the children act restricted. aggressively, firmly tell them to go away. o Taking photos of military installations is illegal.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION TOURIST ASSISTANCE „ For information in Russia, contact an Intourist office. „ National emergency numbers: fire #01, police #02, The phone numbers are Moscow #203-69-62, St. ambulance #03, gas leaks #04 and general emergencies Petersburg # 214-64-20, Stavropol #391-72, Murmansk #05. #543-72, and Vyborg # 212-58. There are very few Intourist offices in Siberia, except in larger cities, such „ For phone information, call #09. as Irkutsks in southern Siberia. „ Roadside assistance is rarely available. „ Global positioning systems must be declared before benzin „ Repair stations are infrequent. Gas ( ) shortages entering Russia. Radio electronic devices, including cell often occur. When purchasing gas, be sure you are not phones, may also require permission for importation. benzin given diesel instead of . The words for both fuels No restrictions on personal lap top computers exist,

sound the same in Russian. but software may be inspected on departure. For „ If involved in a road crash, do not leave the scene if further information, consult the State Department anyone is injured or killed. If no one is injured or killed (Website: http://travel.state.gov; fax: 202-647-3000 or and if everyone agrees that there are no damages or contact the US Embassy or one of the US consulates. that damages can be settled out of court, the police do not have to be called. If a road crash report is needed DISASTER PREPAREDNESS for insurance purposes, call the general police #02, and „ Volcanic activity has occurred in the Kuril Islands and do not move the vehicles. on the Kamchatka Peninsula. „ All foreign travelers must have a Russian-based „ Earthquakes have occurred on the Kamchatka sponsor, such as a hotel, tour company, relative, Peninsula. employer, university, etc.

„ Tourism facilities are not well developed, except in

Moscow, St. Petersburg and some other larger cities.

Many goods and services are not available.

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MEDICAL CARE „ U.S. medical insurance is not always valid in other „ Medical care is usually far below Western standards. countries. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover Severe shortages of basic medical supplies are common. medical expenses rendered outside the U.S. Medigap Hospitals often reuse needles. Blood screening policies (plans C through J) cover 80 percent of what procedures are inadequate. Elective surgeries, requiring Medicare would cover in the U.S. for the first 60 days blood transfusions, and non-essential blood of each trip; a $250 deductible applies. Maximum transfusions are not recommended. lifetime limit of $50,000. Medicare Advantage may offer coverage for care abroad. Phone: 800-633-4227; „ Ambulance response times are long. Ambulances often website: lack basic equipment. www.medicare.gov/publications/pubs/pdf/11037.pdf „ Ambulances may not be able to get through traffic quickly, due to gridlock. Drivers often do not yield to ambulances, despite sirens or flashing lights. EMBASSY INFORMATION „ Traffic officers receive no first aid training. „ The Russian Embassy, Consular Section, 2641Tunlaw „ Travelers with pre-existing health problems and elderly Rd., NW, Washington, DC 20007. Phone: (202) travelers may be at a higher risk, given the limitations 939-8907. Website: http://russianembassy.org. of available health care. „ Russian Consulates in the U.S. „ In a medical emergency, call Intourist for assistance: Moscow: #203-69-62, St. Petersburg: #214-64-20, o Houston: 1333 West Loop South, Ste.1300, Houston, Stavropol” #391-72, Murmansk: #543-72 and Vyborg: TX 77027. Phone: 713-337-3300 #212-58. o New York: 9 East 91 St., New York, NY 10128. Phone: „ Getting care in one of the few quality medical facilities 212-348-0926. in Moscow and St. Petersburg usually requires cash or o San Francisco: 2790 Green St., San Francisco, CA credit card payment upon admission. Western rates are 94123. Phone: 415-928-6878 or 415-202-9800. charged. o Seattle: 2323 Westin Building, 2001 6th Ave., Seattle, „ There are strict rules on the importation of large WA 98121. Phone: 206-728-1910. quantities of medications. Contact the Russian „ The U.S. Embassy, Consular Section, Novinskiy Bulvar Embassy or one of its Consulates for specific 21, Moscow, metro station . Embassy’s information. main switchboard phone: (7) (495) 728-5000; website: „ The US Embassy and Consulates maintain lists of http://moscow.usembassy.gov/. English-speaking doctors and local and regional „ American Citizen Services Unit, phone: (7) (495) 728- hospitals. Many hotels or guides will call a doctor upon 5577, fax: (7) (495) 728-5084; email:

request. Some hotels keep a doctor on call. [email protected]. After hours, call the main „ Medical care on Sakhalin Island: Traffic police receive switchboard. intensive first aid training and take a first aid fresher „ U.S. Consulates in Russia: course annually. Ambulance personnel are highly trained; ambulances are well equipped. Fire services o St. Petersburg, 15 Ulitsa Furshtadskaya, St. personnel provide assistance on remote area rescues. Petersburg 191028. Phone: (7) (812) 331-2600; fax (7) (812) 331-2646, email: [email protected]; website: http://stpetersburg.usconsulate.gov. o Vladivostok, 32 Ulitsa Pushkinskaya, Vladivostok 690001. Phone: (7) (4232) 30-00-70; fax: (7) (4232) 30-00-91. After-hours emergencies, phone: (7) (4232) 71 00 67, email: [email protected]; website: [email protected].

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o Yekaterinburg, Ulitsa Gogolya 15a, 4th Floor, Yekaterinburg 620151. Phone: (7) 343) 379-3001, fax (7-3432) 564-515, After-hours emergency: (7) 8 902 84 16653, email: [email protected]; website: http://yekaterinburg.usconsulate.gov. „ You may have to drive great distances to obtain services from Russian government organizations or the US Embassy or a Consulate in Russia.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

„ Contact the Association for Safe International Road Travel 11769 Gainsborough Road, Potomac MD 20854, USA Phone: (301) 983-5252 Fax: (301) 983-3663 Website: www.asirt.org E-mail: [email protected].

ASIRT is a non-profit humanitarian organization established in memory of Aron Sobel, age 25, who was killed along with 22 other passengers in a Pamukkale Bus Company crash on the roads of Turkey. © ASIRT 2008

Disclaimer: ASIRT provides this information as a service to the traveling public. This report is intended to represent general road conditions, driving environment, quality of public transportation, medical care and emergency response. It may not be totally accurate in a specific location or circumstance.

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