St Petersburg, one of the host cities for the World Cup, has suspended the handling of dangerous goods and bunkering at the Port of St Petersburg, over a two month period, from 25 May to 25 July, around the FIFA World Cup.
The security measures apply to all modes of transport, including railroad, and stevedoring companies, cargo terminals and bunker suppliers. The decree lists numerous goods as dangerous cargoes, including many kinds of explosives and toxins as well as some chemical, radioactive, and biological substances.
The measures only affect territory within the radius of 100 km from the football stadiums and other relevant sport infrastructure. In particular, there will be no restrictions on the carrying and handling of dangerous cargoes in the port of Ust-Luga, which is 117 km away from St Petersburg.
These restrictions were also carried out during the FIFA Confederations Cup in 2017. The railroad was completely closed for the transport and handling of dangerous goods and vessels carrying dangerous goods.
Due to all the measures described above, owners and operators are advised to contact their local agents or representatives prior to the cargo arrival at the port of St. Petersburg or other relevant Russian Ports, to ascertain whether a vessel with dangerous cargo on board will be permitted to enter the port and to perform cargo operations or bunkering.
The World Cup is being held in Russia from 14 June to 15 July. Seven matches are going to be played at St Petersburg Stadium, including one of the semi-finals.