Heavy snowfall causes road restrictions in Georgia

The Gudauri-Kobi road section of the Mtskheta-Stepantsminda-Larsi route, connecting Georgia to Russia, is closed to all vehicles due to a snowstorm and low visibility, Georgia’s Road Department has announced.

The National Environment Agency said there is no risk of avalanches but vehicles are forbidden to move along the Gudauri-Kobi road section due to safety concerns.

"Traffic stops are forbidden for vehicles on the 134-135km (Dariali gorge) section of the same road. This traffic mode will be carried out under direct supervision and coordination of the Patrol Police”, read the press release by the Roads Department of Georgia.

The Mtskheta-Stepantsminda-Larsi route and its Kobi-Gudauri section frequently face road restrictions in winter due to weather conditions, large snowfall or avalanche threats.

Due to intense snowfall, traffic is also forbidden for trailers and semi-trailers on the 38-62km stretch (Nakerala Pass) of Kutaisi (Motsameta) -Tkibuli-Ambrolauri secondary road, while traffic is open for other modes of transport.

Traffic is open for vehicles on remaining sections of the road, announced the Roads Department of Georgia.