"Compete in the 'our site' contest by showcasing your killed garden!"

In the heart of Yakutsk, a massive puddle on Chernyshevsky Street has been a persistent issue, outlasting three mayors - Nikolaev, Aksentyev, and Grigoryev. This long-standing problem is now the focus of a new initiative, as Yakutia.Info, a local news platform, has launched a contest to address issues in courtyards, streets, and public spaces across the city.

The contest, titled "My Broken Courtyard," encourages creative writing and presentation. Participants are invited to describe in detail and vividly the problem they've encountered in a courtyard, street, or neighbourhood. To make their entries more engaging, participants are encouraged to include as many vibrant photos and videos from different angles as possible.

The contest is part of the "Yakutia.Info Competition" and is aimed at sparking public engagement to address long-standing issues in Yakutsk's public spaces. Entries can be sent to [email protected] and the Telegram number 8-914-292-39-53.

The authorities have taken notice of the issue on Chernyshevsky Street. The puddle-ridden intra-quarter road has been added to the registry for works on draining meltwater, with the works scheduled to be completed by April 17, 2024. The road is also included in the registry for works on graveling and greasing intra-quarter streets and roads in the Central District in 2024, with the works approximately scheduled for June-July 2024.

To further boost participation, bonus points will be given if previous action has been taken to address the problem with a courtyard, street, or public space. Winners will be determined by both public voting and jury evaluation.

The Yakutsk City Administration has responded to the post about the puddle on Chernyshevsky Street, and the response was posted in the VK group of the contest "My Broken Courtyard." The authorities have shown their commitment to addressing long-standing issues in Yakutsk's public spaces and engaging the community in the process.

The puddle on Chernyshevsky Street has been a persistent issue for at least as long as the Zabolotsky era, making this contest a much-needed step towards improving the city's public spaces. The contest duration will depend on public engagement, making it an ongoing effort to make Yakutsk a cleaner and more inviting city for all its residents.