Variation in Paving Layouts: Comparison between Yakutsk and Irkutsk's Streets
In the Siberian cities of Irkutsk and Yakutsk, different approaches to sidewalk construction are being employed due to varying soil conditions and climatic factors.
In Irkutsk, geotextile, a type of fabric used for soil stabilization, is often used in the construction of sidewalks. This is likely due to the unique soil conditions or climatic factors that require enhanced soil stabilization. Interestingly, in Yakutsk, the soil or climate conditions might not necessitate the use of geotextile. Instead, a new method of laying pavement tiles was used for the first time around government house No.1, which involves digging up the old base and laying tiles on a concrete base.
A compacted sand-gravel base is used where the soil is naturally stable and solid. In Irkutsk, a more labor-intensive but reliable technology for laying sidewalk pavement on a concrete base is employed. This method results in smooth sidewalks, even on streets with old pavement, as demonstrated on Karl Marx Street, where the sidewalk pavement was replaced in 2022.
High-quality paving stones laid on a concrete screed can last for decades, according to guidelines for laying paving stones. However, in Yakutsk, pavement tiles are often laid on top of old asphalt, which leads to warping the following year.
The budgetary situation also plays a role in the choice of construction methods. In 2023, Yakutsk's city budget had a deficit of 1 billion 716 million rubles, while Irkutsk's budget had a deficit reduction of 568 million rubles. Despite Irkutsk's budget revenue being 10 billion more than Yakutsk's, its population is a third larger and its total area is twice as large.
Recently, a journalist and public figure, Vitaly Obedin, expressed his concern over the use of poor-quality materials for road repairs in Yakutsk. In a viral video on social media, Obedin claimed that the mayor's office and road workers in Yakutsk are using subpar materials to save money and then profit from repair contracts. He argued that these subpar materials are destroyed due to the harsh climatic conditions in Yakutsk, leading to the need for frequent repairs.
Work is currently underway to improve the area around government house No.1 in Yakutsk, and a model site for the laying of pavement tiles has been established in the city. Despite the challenges, both cities continue to strive for improved infrastructure to benefit their residents.
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