A section of the M-12 Vostok highway is at risk of collapse due to suffosion, the process of groundwater washing away sand from under the road slabs. This erosion is occurring near the 31st kilometer of the highway, between the village of Rusavkino-Romanovo and the Sportmaster warehouses in the Balashikha area, threatening the structural integrity of the roadway.

The issue stems from alterations made to the Vyunka River’s channel during the highway’s construction. Residents report that the right lane of the M-12, heading away from Moscow, is particularly vulnerable.

The M-12 Vostok is a toll highway, already extending over 800 kilometers. While a significant portion, including the Moscow-Kazan section completed in 2023, is operational, construction continues on a 275-kilometer stretch towards Yekaterinburg and Tyumen.

Locals first alerted Avtodor, the highway’s management company, to the problem seven months ago. Despite initial promises to address the situation, the erosion has persisted and worsened, especially after recent heavy rains.

According to Ivan Kabanov, a local resident, the gradual destruction of the highway has been ongoing for a year, but the recent downpours have significantly accelerated the process. He notes that the road surface is now “hanging by a thread,” supported only by neighboring sections.

Another resident, Igor, echoes these concerns, suggesting the situation could lead to a road collapse and potential accidents. He also fears that the erosion could further damage the Vyunka River. Residents are urging immediate action to reinforce the affected area and clear the river channel.

Avtodor has been contacted for comment on the situation.