Infrastructure decay leaves Chisinau neighborhoods struggling with severe potholes
Residential courtyards across Chisinau have become nearly impassable following the winter season, leaving residents struggling with deep potholes and uneven terrain. While municipal crews have begun work on main arterial roads, inner-city residential access points remain neglected, sparking widespread frustration.
For many drivers and pedestrians in the Telecentru district, navigating the daily commute has turned into a dangerous slalom. Residents report that the deterioration is unprecedented, with some citing significant vehicle damage and personal injuries.
"It is a nightmare; the quality of the previous work is simply non-existent," one driver shared. Another resident highlighted the physical danger, noting, "I slipped into one of these craters during the ice melt and ended up with a broken arm."
Systemic urban neglect
The issue is not isolated to a single neighborhood. In various sectors, parents complain that children must navigate knee-deep mud when it rains. Despite numerous formal requests for repairs, many communities claim their petitions have been denied or ignored by local authorities.
"You exit one hole only to fall into another," a resident remarked, noting the recurring cycle of suspension repairs required for their vehicle. "The municipality needs to hear us; these are not just potholes, they are enormous craters."
Delayed municipal response
City Hall officials stated that current repair efforts are prioritized for main roads. Interventions in residential courtyards will only begin once "climatic conditions" allow for the application of hot asphalt.
"We will intervene in the courtyards as soon as the weather warms up," said Vasile Chirilescu, spokesperson for Chisinau City Hall. However, the administration has yet to provide a specific start date or a clear timeline for the completion of these works.
Budgetary promises vs. reality
Earlier this year, Mayor Ion Ceban announced that approximately €15.3 million (approx. 300 million MDL) has been earmarked for the renovation of residential courtyards in 2026. For now, residents remain skeptical as they continue to navigate a crumbling infrastructure.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
