M3 Ukraine Federal Highway, federal highway in Russia
The M3 Ukraine is a federal highway stretching about 430 kilometers from Moscow through several regions, including parts of Kaluga, Bryansk, and Kursk oblasts, to the Ukrainian border. The road begins at the intersection of Leninsky Prospekt and the Moscow Ring Road, running southwest through suburban areas like Solntsevo and Vnukovo before opening into countryside, with the road known for its straight path and wide lanes that make travel easier.
The highway began operation in the late 1970s and has since become an important link between Moscow and southern regions of Russia. Since late 2011, it has been managed by Avtodor, a company responsible for its upkeep and ongoing improvements.
The M3 is known locally as the Ukraine Highway, named after its destination at the border with the neighboring country. It serves as a vital corridor for moving goods and people between Moscow and regions to the south.
The highway sees daily traffic averaging about 9000 vehicles, with peak loads reaching around 50000 cars per day, mostly consisting of trucks. In winter, the road can become icy and requires careful driving, while local authorities actively clear snow and maintain conditions for safe passage.
In December 2012, a notable incident occurred when an aircraft overran the runway at Vnukovo Airport and crashed onto the highway, making headlines and serving as a visible reminder of the road's proximity to the airport. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries from the accident.
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