Drivers in Yekaterinburg Clutter Bus Seats with Junk
Drivers of route buses in Yekaterinburg are blocking front passenger seats with various items, citing theft concerns or claiming they are for service use. The city's transport department considers this a violation of regulations.
Feb 1, 2026 0
A front bus seat is blocked with various objects to prevent passengers from sitting.
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In Yekaterinburg, public transport drivers have started blocking front passenger seats with various items to prevent people from sitting on them.
A driver has cordoned off a seat with a rope and towel, placing a wooden cabinet nearby.
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These seats were previously occupied by conductors, but with the advent of payment terminals, they became free, and passengers began using them.
An example of a penalty ticket for pollution inside a bus cabin.
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According to drivers, they fear that passengers might steal revenue or personal belongings. Some claim that the front seats are for service use.
A document confirming a fine of 100,000 rubles (approx. $1,000 at current rates) for ticket sales fraud.
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The city«s transport department considers such actions a violation, as they lead to cluttering of the interior.
According to the municipal contract, vehicles must be kept clean. The accumulation of items poses risks to sanitation and fire safety.
Carriers are regularly fined for dirty interiors, with fines usually amounting to about 1,000 rubles (approximately $10 at current rates).
More serious sanctions are imposed for vehicles not going on route — from 2,000 to 10,000 rubles (approx. $20 to $100 at current rates).
The largest fines, up to 100,000 rubles (approx. $1,000 at current rates), are received by drivers for fraud with ticket sales, such as reselling the same ticket.
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