Blagoveshchensk has become the first city in Russia to completely ban the use and placement of personal mobility devices (PMDs), including electric scooters, effective July 14. Violators will face fines for using or placing PMDs in prohibited areas within the city.

The ban was implemented due to safety concerns and numerous complaints from residents regarding PMD usage. City authorities cited the devices being treated as toys rather than transportation, leading to pedestrian injuries and emergency situations.

Fines for violating the ban range from 3,000 to 5,000 rubles for citizens, 15,000 to 25,000 rubles for officials, and 100,000 to 150,000 rubles for legal entities. The Legislative Assembly of the Amur Region adopted a law at the end of June establishing administrative responsibility for violating PMD usage rules in public areas, paving the way for the ban.

Prior to the complete ban, the city attempted to engage with electric scooter operators and initially restricted PMD use to the city center. While the restriction in the center was well-received, the problem shifted to other areas, leading to an increase in uncontrolled PMD usage.

“This is a serious restriction, but there is no other way out. The city must be comfortable and safe for everyone,” stated Blagoveshchensk Mayor Oleg Imamayev. He emphasized that the ban is a forced but necessary measure to prioritize the safety of residents. Administrative commissions of municipalities will be responsible for identifying and documenting violations of the ban.