New Metro Stations in Minsk to Open by the End of 2024 After All: What’s Known?

Minsk is preparing for another significant milestone in urban infrastructure development—the opening of three new stations on the Zelenoluzhskaya metro line. These include Aerodromnaya, Nemorshansky Sad, and Slutsky Gostinets. Their launch is planned for late 2024, but the exact date has not yet been announced. The First Deputy Chairman of the Minsk City Executive Committee, Nadezhda Lazarevich, confirmed on the "Budni" talk show on Alfa Radio that the work is in its final stages. She expressed confidence that the stations would be operational on time, improving the city's transport accessibility and enhancing commuting comfort for Minsk residents.

Long-awaited Opening: When Will the New Stations Launch?

Officials have previously mentioned various launch dates for the new stations. In early 2023, an opening in July 2024 was discussed, but later the date shifted to November 7. However, those plans also proved unfeasible. In August 2023, the Deputy Chairman of the Minsk City Executive Committee, Alexander Chernikov, announced that the launch would only take place by the end of 2024. In January of this year, Vladimir Kukharev, Chairman of the Minsk City Executive Committee, confirmed that the three new stations are nearing completion. According to him, construction is advancing toward the final stage, and the stations are expected to open at the end of the year. Thus, December—possibly even New Year’s Eve, as was the case with some other Minsk metro stations—may be the likely launch date.

What Will Change with the Opening of the New Stations?

The Zelenoluzhskaya metro line has already significantly impacted Minsk’s transport network. The first phase of this line, opened in November 2020, included the stations Kovalskaya Sloboda, Vokzalnaya, Ploshchad Frantiska Bogushevicha, and Yubileynaya Ploshchad. The new stations will further extend the line, providing access to remote city districts. The Aerodromnaya, Nemorshansky Sad, and Slutsky Gostinets stations promise to improve transport connectivity, especially for residents of southeastern Minsk. Additionally, the Slutskoye electric depot is planned for operation, ensuring the new section’s stability and safety.

Other Significant Projects in 2024

Alongside metro construction, other major infrastructure projects are underway in Minsk. Key projects include:

• National Football Stadium: Construction on Vaneeva Street is nearing completion, and the stadium is expected to welcome its first visitors this year.
• International Exhibition Center: This new venue in the Severny Bereg (Northern Shore) district will host major exhibitions and forums. Its opening is also planned by year-end.
• Artesian Water Supply: Work to connect the Frunzensky and Moskovsky districts to artesian water sources will be completed, significantly improving water quality.

Public Transport Updates

Authorities are actively improving the city’s transport system. Contracts for over 100 new buses and trolleybuses have already been signed, and these vehicles will begin servicing routes in 2025. Additionally, new carriages have been purchased for the metro, intended for use on the Zelenoluzhskaya line.

Future Prospects

Minsk continues to evolve, creating a comfortable urban environment for its residents. Beyond transport projects, authorities promise new recreational areas, including the Muravitsky Hills park near Yesenina and Gromova Streets. The park will feature unique multi-level hills, an observation deck, a dance area, and an open-air cinema.

Conclusion

The opening of three new metro stations will be a landmark event for Minsk, highlighting the high level of urban infrastructure development. City authorities assure that the work will be completed on schedule, allowing residents to enjoy the improvements by the end of 2024. These projects not only enhance mobility but also reinforce Minsk’s status as a modern and comfortable city to live in.