Kyiv is preparing for another large-scale test of its transport system. On the Obolonsko-Teremkivska (blue) metro line, a major overhaul of the tunnels is planned on the section between Tarasa Shevchenko and Pochaina stations.
Key figures and facts
Cost of work: 1,84 billion hryvnias.
Duration: up to 23 months (almost two years).
Reason: critical deterioration of structures built over 40 years ago in difficult hydrogeological conditions.
Status: currently preparing tender documentation, start planned for 2026.
How are they planning to carry out the repairs?
According to TSN, experts are considering several scenarios to minimize inconvenience for passengers:
Restrictions on the "window": carrying out major work at night and on weekends.
"Shuttle" traffic: organization of train traffic on one track (as was the case during the repairs at Teremki).
Open excavation: part of the tunnels will be torn from the surface to completely replace the structures and strengthen the soil.
Risks and expert warnings
Transport analysts, in particular Dmytro Bespalov, warn of possible complications:
Transport collapse: Kyiv lacks resources to fully duplicate the metro with ground transport.
Shelter function: The Metro remains a strategic civil defense facility, which limits the possibilities for complete closure of stations.
Financial deficit: The approved Metro Development Program for 2026 provides for UAH 9,9 billion in investments, but in reality, only UAH 2,1 billion has been budgeted. This creates a risk of the renovation turning into a “long-term construction project.”
Historical context
The situation on the Taras Shevchenko - Pochaina section is reminiscent of the recent crisis between Demiivska and Lybidska. However, this time the scope of work may be much greater due to the peculiarities of groundwater in the Podil region.
Important: The metro emphasizes that train traffic is completely safe today, but preventive repairs are necessary to avoid an emergency stop of the blue line in the future.
Previously reported: Kyiv approved a metro technical development strategy for 2026, but the gap between needs and actual funding remains significant.
