Category: Moscow Metro

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

In anticipation of the New Year 2026, at the direction of Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, the Department of Transport and the Moscow Metro State Unitary Enterprise completed the festive decoration program for the city's transportation system. The complex of events is aimed at creating a festive atmosphere for passengers and covers the metro, ground-level public transportation, and service facilities.

Over 150 artificial Christmas trees have been installed at more than 40 metro stations, 15 MCC stations, eight MCD stations, and five bus stations across the metro and railway stations. Neon signs and garlands have been placed on the facades and in the entrance halls of six metro stations (Chistye Prudy, Ploshchad Revolyutsii, Baumanskaya, Arbatskaya, Taganskaya, and Rizhskaya) and the Kutuzovskaya station on the Moscow Central Circle. Thematic light installations have been installed at Krasnye Vorota (light arch), Semyonovskaya (the "Gifts" installation), and in the escalator gallery of Vorobyovy Gory station (100 suspended elements). 24 themed trains (Rusich, Oka, Moscow-2019, Moscow-2020, and Numbered trains) have been launched on 11 metro lines.

Moreover, the facades of the metro administrative building at Prospekt Mira station, the Varshavskoye electric depot, and the Advanced Development Center in the Kuntsevo district were decorated.

A total of 230 ground transportation vehicles will be decorated in festive style, including 50 electric buses, 60 Vityaz-Moscow trams, and, for the first time, two autonomous Lvenok-Moscow trams on routes T1 and 5. Over 600 festive posters have been placed at bus stops throughout the city, and 115 buses have received themed wraps. The Okhotny Ryad metro stop on Tverskaya Street has been decorated especially.

"Following Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin's instructions, we're gradually decorating public transportation and infrastructure for the New Year. We're placing installations at metro stations and city landmarks. The decorations create a unified New Year's space and create a festive atmosphere for passengers," noted Maxim Liksutov, Deputy Mayor for Transport.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

The Moscow Metro has begun a large-scale modernization of its ticketing infrastructure. The first new-generation ticket information terminal (TITPB) has already been installed at Nizhegorodskaya station, and modern turnstiles have been installed. By the end of 2025, these devices will be installed at five more stations, and by 2026, 450 new Moscow-made terminals will be installed throughout the metro.

The new ITPBs offer twice the speed of passenger service thanks to modern software and hardware. The devices feature an ergonomic, compact design, a user-friendly interface, and support for the latest banking data security technologies. In addition to purchasing and topping up tickets, including the Troika card, passengers will be able to plan routes directly on the metro's touchscreen map.

Simultaneously, new turnstiles were launched—they are 20% faster than their predecessors and allow for a 40% increase in station capacity. The equipment supports all modern payment methods: from traditional tickets to the virtual Troika card, the Fast Payment System, and biometric identification. Colored backlighting and vibration feedback promptly inform users of the transaction result.

In December 2025, five new ticket information terminals will be installed at Kuntsevskaya station on the Big Circle Line, as well as VDNKh and Medvedkovo stations on the Kaluzhsko-Rizhskaya Line. This will be the next stage in the upgrade of Moscow's public transportation ticketing infrastructure.

In 2026, new turnstiles will appear at 25 stations, and by the end of 2031, more than 4,500 units of such equipment will be installed in the metro, on the Moscow Central Circle (MCC), and the Moscow Central Diameters (MCD) lines.

"The first terminal is already operational at the Nizhegorodskaya station transfer hub. Five more devices will be installed at metro stations by the end of 2025. The machines will be equipped with innovative technology that can handle the increased speed of payment transactions. This will double the speed of passenger service. In line with Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin's instructions, we will continue to implement the world's best digital technologies into the ticketing system," noted Maxim Liksutov.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

A new, high-tech train, the "Moscow-2026" series, has entered service on the Zamoskvoretskaya Line of the Moscow Metro. This modern train was designed and manufactured by Metrovagonmash using domestically produced components.

Before entering service, the train underwent a comprehensive test run without passengers. Specialists checked the operation of all systems and mechanisms, analyzing every detail.

The new "Moscow-2026" series retains the key advantages of previous generations: powerful air conditioning systems, wide doors, comfortable inter-carriage walkways, and adaptive lighting. The train's capacity has been increased by 10% compared to traditional "numbered" trains, and the door width has increased by 32%.

Engineers also improved ergonomics and passenger comfort. The new train features increased glass area in the entrance areas, upgraded rearview cameras, and an improved passenger-driver communication system. The seats now have no metal joints, and the air conditioning system now has more air ducts in the ceiling. The lighting in the head cars has also been completely updated.

The Moscow-2026 is a new step in the development of domestic transport engineering. Today, this train can rightfully be called one of the most technologically advanced and comfortable metro cars in the world.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Moscow, December 16, 2025 – The outgoing year 2025 can rightfully be called a year of breakthroughs in the development of the Moscow tram system. A number of key projects have been implemented in the capital that will shape the future of this mode of urban transport for decades to come. These include the launch of Russia's first fully driverless tram, the introduction of overhead tram line sections for autonomously powered trams, and the launch of the first Moscow Tram Diameter (MTD).

Today, December 16, 2025, these significant events were complemented by the opening of Moscow's second overhead line, marking the return of tram #5 to the Trifonovskaya Street route connecting Belorussky Railway Station and Rizhskaya Metro Station after 30 years.

To implement the project, Moscow Metro specialists carried out extensive work: the rails, sleepers, and track surface were completely replaced. New tram tracks were laid on the section of Gilyarovsky Street between Trifonovskaya Street and Rizhskaya Square, and a modern turning loop was installed at Rizhskaya Metro Station.

The track was laid using cutting-edge seamless installation technology, using rubber seals and special vibration-damping mats. This ensures a quiet and smooth ride for trams, improving comfort for both passengers and residents of adjacent streets. The new section is fully integrated into the existing tram network, with three switches at the intersection of Trifonovskaya and Obraztsova Streets being upgraded.

Route No. 5 is served by modern "Lvenok-Moskva" trams. They travel over 4 kilometers from Obraztsova Street to the Rizhskaya metro station and back, running autonomously, without the need to connect to the overhead power system.

"2025 truly marks a turning point for the Moscow tram. Not only have we launched Russia's first driverless tram and the Moscow Tram Diameter, but we're also continuing to develop the infrastructure, bringing trams back to areas where they haven't been for decades. The opening of the Trifonovskaya Street line is an important step in this direction, demonstrating the effectiveness of autonomous operation and the city's commitment to creating modern, comfortable, and environmentally friendly transportation for Muscovites," said Maxim Liksutov, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport.

In addition to the transportation infrastructure, comprehensive improvements were made to Trifonovskaya and adjacent streets. A comfortable public space with landscaping and cozy recreation areas was created at Rizhskaya Square, significantly improving the quality of the urban environment.

The immediate plans include the opening of the second Moscow Tram Diameter (T2) from the Novogireevo MCD station to the Chertanovskaya metro station, as well as the further expansion of the Moscow tram network. Priority areas include extending the lines on Entuziastov Highway to the Ivanovskoye district and on Akademika Korolyova Street to the TV Center and Ostankino MCD station, which will make the tram network even more accessible and expand to new areas of the capital.

About the Moscow tram:

The Moscow tram is one of the oldest and most dynamically developing urban transport systems. In recent years, Moscow has been actively implementing projects to modernize and expand the tram network, introduce cutting-edge technologies, and improve passenger comfort, confirming Moscow's status as a leader in smart transportation.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

The new Moscow Tram Diameter T1, connecting Metrogorodok and the Universitet metro station, carried over 1.8 million passengers in its first month of operation. The route is 27 kilometers long, making it the longest urban tram diameter in the world.

The T1 tram line covers 13 districts of the capital, providing convenient access to 24 metro stations, the Moscow Central Circle (MCC) and Moscow Central Diameters (MCD), as well as four railway stations. The line is staffed by approximately 50 modern "Lvenok-Moscow" trams equipped with an autonomous driving system, which maintains a consistent interval of just six minutes.

The launch of T1 has reduced travel times in the city center by up to 20%. The new diameter has become a comfortable and efficient means of transportation for more than a million residents of the capital.

"The Moscow T1 tram diameter has demonstrated impressive results in its first month of operation. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported that the T1 trams have already made over 10,000 trips and traveled over 270,000 kilometers. This transport solution has proven its popularity among passengers. We are convinced that autonomous trams are reliable, comfortable, and safe," noted Maxim Liksutov, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport.

The success of the first tram diameter confirms the potential for this transport model. In the spring of 2026, the capital plans to launch a second tram diameter, connecting the Novogireevo MCD station with the Chertanovskaya metro station, continuing the expansion of comfortable and modern urban infrastructure.

About Moscow Tram Diameter T1:

The Moscow Tram Diameter T1 is a new urban transportation development project for Moscow, designed to improve accessibility and reduce travel times for residents. It is a modern tram line offering a high level of service and utilizing cutting-edge technology.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Today, the capital completed a major phase of implementing biometric fare payment—the service became available at all turnstiles of the Moscow Metro and the Moscow Central Circle (MCC).

Briefly about the main thing:

The service is already available on Aeroexpress trains, at regular river electric transport berths, and at a number of Moscow Central Diameters stations.

– Due to the growing popularity of the service, it is planned to expand it to all MCD stations by the end of 2026.

– Connection to the service is carried out through the official Moscow Metro application.

Benefits and safety:

– Biometric payment eliminates the need to carry cards, phones or cash – just a glance at the camera.

The system was developed entirely in Russia and is owned by the Moscow Government. All user personal data is securely encrypted, the system is protected from external intrusion, and built with modern information security standards in mind.

– Thanks to its wide range of transport options, Moscow is a world leader in the number of transport services with biometric payment.

Usage statistics:

Since the service's launch in October 2021, nearly 700,000 users have already connected.

How to connect:

– To connect, open the Moscow Metro app and follow the instructions for registering a biometric profile.

Project value:

Biometric payment improves the convenience and speed of passenger travel, reduces security checkpoint times, and facilitates the digital transformation of urban transport infrastructure.

"The biometric fare payment service launched at all metro stations in 2021, following a request from Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. Today, passengers make approximately 200,000 trips per weekday using facial recognition, and this number is steadily growing. I was one of the first users of the system and recommend everyone to join and try it. Our development complies with the strictest requirements of Russian law. All user data is encrypted and protected, and payment information is stored exclusively on the bank's side," assured Maxim Liksutov.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Four years ago, residents of the Ramenki and Ochakovo-Matveyevskoye districts in southwest Moscow relied solely on ground transportation and the Kalininsko-Solntsevskaya metro line. The situation changed dramatically with the opening of the Aminyevskaya stations of the same name on the Big Circle Line (BKL) and the Moscow Central Diameters (MCD)-4. These transport hubs not only improved mobility but also launched large-scale development of the area.

Today, more than 272,000 people have access to fast and comfortable transportation within walking distance of their homes. Over the past four years, the number of trips on the Moscow Central Diameter 4 (MCD-4) in this area has increased more than 23-fold.

According to the Moscow Department of Economic Policy and Development, the opening of the stations has also had a positive impact on the local economy: by 2025, the total revenue of businesses and entrepreneurs within a 1.5 km radius of Aminyevskaya (BKL and MCD-4) increased by 54% in comparable prices compared to 2021.

The transport boost also accelerated housing construction: over 600,000 square meters of housing have been built near stations over the past few years. Another 300,000 square meters are planned for completion in the next three years.

Today, the Aminyevskaya station on the Moscow Central Diameters (MCD-4) functions as a fully-fledged city station, handling 17,300 trips daily. The Big Circle Line (BKL) station sees even higher usage, handling approximately 42,000 trips per day.

"Transport accessibility is a key factor when choosing a home. At the direction of Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, we continue to develop and improve the capital's rail infrastructure. The opening of the Aminyevskaya station on the MCD-4 and the Big Circle Line was a significant step: housing is now being actively built here, and the population in the surrounding areas has grown to 278,000. We see how much demand there is for these transport solutions," added Maxim Liksutov.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Moscow Deputy Mayor for Transport and Industry Maxim Liksutov announced that the first stage of pilot operation of the driverless metro train will begin on the Big Circle Line (BCL) in December 2025.

Checking the operation of the main systems will include:

1) automatic control of falls on the tracks – to detect people or foreign objects on the tracks;

2) machine vision – to detect anomalies from on board a rolling stock while it is moving;

3) Interaction with the dispatch center – for the prompt transmission of train data and rapid response to incidents. In the future, the system will be able to automatically generate train schedules.

"Safety and stability of transportation remain our priorities. During the first stage of pilot operation, the system will be tested on a modern Moskva series train at night, without passengers, under the supervision of a driver. In accordance with the Moscow Transport Development Strategy, approved by Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin, a working prototype of the train will be ready by the end of 2026, capable of operating in a fully driverless mode, taking into account the Moscow Metro's intervals," added Maxim Liksutov.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Several New Year's installations have been installed in the metro. In anticipation of the New Year, you can find them at the following stations:

"Trubnaya" — more than 400 New Year's decorations along the arched structures: Christmas tree decorations, gifts, snowmen, bells, and light balls.

Krasnopresnenskaya station facade features illuminated volumetric elements and the Moscow Transport logo.

"Mayakovskaya" — a photo zone called "Santa Claus's Residence" featuring a New Year's interior with a fireplace, decorated Christmas trees, an armchair, and decorative gifts.

"Michurinsky Prospekt" is a photo zone in the style of the New Year's fairy tale "The Nutcracker."

"We'll decorate over 100 metro stations for the New Year and install over 50 themed installations. We carefully store and reuse most of the decorative elements in future years, allowing us to take an environmentally friendly approach to the design. Photo zones and themed installations help passengers get into the New Year's spirit," said Maxim Liksutov.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

RUDN University is considered one of the most international universities in Russia due to its large number of international students from nearly 160 countries and 500 nationalities. It also ranks high in international rankings. It enrolls approximately 9,000 international students annually.

The themed train's carriages are decorated to tell the story of the university. Passengers will also learn about student life, its international programs, academic programs, and scientific achievements.

Since 2024, RUDN students and staff have been able to get there quickly and conveniently by metro: the "Peoples' Friendship University" station has opened on the first section of the Troitskaya Line. Today, it is the line's most popular station, with over 21,000 trips made there on weekdays.

This year, Moscow Transport is actively participating in RUDN's anniversary celebrations: at the beginning of the year, a themed photo exhibition was held at the Peoples' Friendship University station, dedicated to the university's vibrant life. A unique exhibition in flasks, "RUDN: Territory of Opportunities," was also presented at the Vorobyovy Gory station. A themed Troika card was also issued in honor of the university, bearing the inspiring slogan "A Travel Pass to the World of Knowledge."

As Maxim Liksutov noted, 27 themed trains have already been launched on the Moscow Metro since the beginning of this year. In line with Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin's mandate, the Moscow Metro is being developed not only as a transportation facility but also as a platform for collaboration with partners in education, science, and culture.