Yekaterinburg residents and entrepreneurs are increasingly concerned about the deteriorating state of Vainer Street, a central pedestrian area, citing issues such as disruptive behavior, unsanitary conditions, and a decline in business. The street has become a gathering place for intoxicated individuals, homeless people, and noisy groups, leading to fights and an overall sense of disorder.

Business owners report that the disturbances are negatively impacting their revenue, as many people are choosing to avoid the area. Residents express disappointment and frustration, describing Vainer Street as a “garbage dump” and a “dormitory corridor” due to the presence of unruly individuals and the lack of cleanliness.

Readers have commented on the low level of communication and language, adding that modern technology is not helping to educate the youth, instead they “only choose dirt.”

Some residents compare the current state of Vainer Street unfavorably to similar streets in other cities, such as Chelyabinsk, where they observe a more pleasant and orderly environment. They also express nostalgia for the past, recalling a time when Vainer Street was cleaner and calmer, even during the 1990s when it was filled with kiosks and gold buyers.

In 2021, architects proposed renovation plans to address the issues, including removing excessive signage and banners. However, these plans were postponed due to funding shortages. The situation has led to feelings of shame among some residents, who lament the transformation of a once-prominent street into a place where homeless people sleep and disruptive behavior is common.