Moscow is set to undertake a major restoration of four historically significant metro stations, built between 1935 and 1951 and recognized as architectural monuments. These stations include “Dinamo,” “Novokuznetskaya,” “Komsomolskaya” on the Sokolnicheskaya line, and “Belorusskaya” on the Circle line. Moscow authorities are prepared to allocate approximately 4 billion rubles for these purposes, and the restoration process itself is expected to take over three years.
Currently, it remains unclear whether the restoration will necessitate the complete closure of these stations to passengers. However, experts emphasize that serious renovation work is urgently needed.
Alena Mukhina, a specialist in Moscow Metro history and a tour guide, highlights that stations like “Dinamo” and “Belorusskaya” have required major overhauls for many years. Problems are primarily linked to high groundwater levels and compromised soil integrity caused by nearby construction work. According to her, these stations have never undergone full capital restoration since their opening, with only cosmetic repairs being performed.
Mukhina points out that although closing stations will inevitably create logistical difficulties for residents of entire districts, performing quality repairs, especially at “Dinamo,” is impossible without a complete shutdown. Similar issues with groundwater and damaged drainage systems are also observed at “Novokuznetskaya” station. She concludes, “The main problem of the metro is water.”
— Alena Mukhina, Moscow Metro historian and tour guide
The Moscow Metro has already announced tenders for the necessary design and survey work, as well as the direct restoration and “adaptation” of these four sites. The scope of tasks for contractors includes developing scientific and project documentation, providing technical and author`s supervision throughout the work, and carrying out the restoration itself. All developed projects must be agreed upon and approved by the capital`s Department of Cultural Heritage.
The total value of the contracts amounts to 4.2 billion rubles, with applications for the tender closing between October 10-13, depending on the specific station. The entire preparation and restoration work is anticipated to take up to three years.
Rupert Blackwood 
Clement Ashworth