Kyiv's Paton Bridge Faces Critical Structural Deterioration, Threatening Major Traffic Disruption.

Condition of Kyiv's Paton Bridge

According to Novyny.live: The Paton Bridge in Kyiv requires urgent repairs due to severe corrosion and general neglect. While experts assure the public the bridge will not collapse suddenly, the condition of its supporting structures is now critical. Significant corrosion damage, particularly on the cross beams, has been noted and demands constant monitoring.

The bridge's critical state is confirmed by the results of a serious instrumental survey conducted in 2020. Between 2013 and 2022, through-thickness cracks caused by corrosion formed in the bridge's structures. A particularly alarming incident occurred in 2017 when a section of the reinforced concrete roadway slab collapsed. Furthermore, the bridge has not been painted since its opening in 1953, a factor that has significantly accelerated its deterioration. This aging infrastructure is a common challenge for many post-Soviet cities.

Safety Concerns

Maxim Bakhmatov, head of Kyiv's Desnianskyi District, has expressed deep concern regarding the state of the Paton Bridge. Valeriy Poznyakov, an academician and deputy director of the E.O. Paton Institute of Electric Welding of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, also emphasized the gravity of the situation:

“The technical condition of the Yevgen Paton Bridge is a cause for serious concern.” - Valeriy Poznyakov

Valeriy Poznyakov warned that if the situation does not change, Kyiv could face a major automotive collapse should the bridge be forced to close.

These bridge problems demand an urgent response from the responsible authorities to ensure traffic safety and prevent potential accidents.

The Paton Bridge situation is critically important not only for traffic safety in Kyiv but for the city's overall infrastructure. If the bridge were to be closed for repairs, it would likely cause severe traffic jams and complications for the city's transport network. It is vital that the responsible bodies act swiftly to undertake the necessary work, as the bridge is a key artery connecting different districts of the capital and providing access to crucial infrastructure facilities.