In St. Petersburg, authorities have confirmed that mobile internet and communications will remain operational during the Victory Day celebrations, marking the 80th anniversary of the Great Patriotic War. This decision has been welcomed by residents and visitors alike, as it ensures that the public can stay connected during the festive events planned from May 7 to May 9, 2025.
According to a statement from the Smolny press service, there will be no restrictions on mobile internet and communications while preparations and celebrations take place. This announcement came in response to concerns raised by the local business community, particularly from the publication "Delovoy Peterburg." Many had feared that connectivity issues could disrupt the celebrations.
However, while mobile services will remain active, the Parking Management Center has issued warnings that drivers may encounter difficulties in paying for parking in areas where rehearsals and celebrations are scheduled. Notably, these include the Victory Parade on Palace Square and the Immortal Regiment procession along Nevsky Prospekt.
In an effort to bolster security during the events, Smolny has also tightened restrictions on certain modes of transportation. A ban will be in effect for non-registered vessels, hydrocycles, scooters, and other personal mobility devices in five districts of St. Petersburg. Authorities have indicated that police will not only detain violators but also seize their vehicles to ensure public safety.
In light of the upcoming festivities, several shopping and entertainment centers in the city will adjust their operating hours. Additionally, the Mayakovskaya metro station will be closed from 14:00 to 15:00, while the Ploshchad Alexandra Nevskogo station will be inaccessible for entry from 13:00 to 14:30. These measures aim to manage the flow of people attending the events.
Meanwhile, in Ekaterinburg, the situation is quite different. On May 9, 2025, mobile internet will be turned off throughout the city center for the duration of the day. This decision has raised concerns among locals and visitors, especially regarding navigation and payment systems.
Anton Khalikov, founder and director of NetAngels, elaborated on the implications of the mobile internet shutdown. He noted that without mobile connectivity, people will lose the ability to use navigation apps, making it essential to download maps in advance. "With the shutdown of mobile internet, the ability to turn on the navigator and see which way to go will disappear," Khalikov explained. He emphasized the importance of being prepared to avoid confusion in the city.
The shutdown is expected to cause significant disruptions for delivery services and taxi operations. Couriers will be unable to access current orders, and taxi services will have to revert to traditional phone calls without the ability to track vehicles in real time. Khalikov reassured that while mobile internet will be disabled, Wi-Fi connections in establishments and homes should remain functional, allowing for messaging through public networks.
However, the shutdown raises concerns about cash payments. Khalikov warned that payment terminals in some retail outlets rely on mobile internet rather than Wi-Fi, meaning customers could face technical difficulties when trying to pay by card. "In some locations, terminals work via mobile internet, and payment by card may be denied for technical reasons," he noted. Thus, withdrawing cash in advance will be crucial for anyone needing to use public transport, as terminals may not function properly.
As the two cities prepare for their respective celebrations, the contrasting approaches to mobile connectivity highlight the importance of planning and public safety during major events. In St. Petersburg, the commitment to maintaining mobile services allows for a seamless experience for attendees, while in Ekaterinburg, the temporary disconnection raises challenges that residents and visitors must navigate.
With the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War approaching, both cities are poised to honor their history and celebrate the sacrifices made. As festivities unfold, it remains essential for participants to stay informed about connectivity issues and adjust their plans accordingly, ensuring that they can fully engage in the commemorative events.
