"It's a problem": Driver shortage affects snow removal in Tomsk
Authorities have decided to raise wages for small machinery operators.
Feb 13, 2026 0
Residents of Tomsk are complaining about the quality of sidewalk clearing.
Source:
A shortage of drivers prevents the municipal enterprise «Tomsk SAKH» from using all tractors for sidewalk clearing.
We have 25 mini-tractors, but only 10 are operational. According to the staffing schedule, we are short 29 people for mini-tractors. Plus, there are 15 MTZ (Belarus tractors) in total, with 10 working. We lack 19 people. «This is a problem for us,» said deputy director Yevgeny Dyachenko to journalists on January 26.
According to Tomsk mayor Dmitry Makhinya, a decision has already been made to raise wages for small machinery operators by 12 thousand rubles (approximately $130 at current rates).
«We are making this decision. This Friday, we have the city council, and we will present the proposal for a wage increase to the deputies. And then — advertise, attract, find, the equipment should not be idle,» said Dmitry Makhinya.
Read more
