Until now, only one crossing—Terespol–Brest—has been available for passenger traffic, while Kukuryki–Kozlovichi served as the sole crossing for freight. Several railway border crossings remained open for cargo traffic: Kuźnica Białostocka–Grodno, Siemianówka–Swisłocz, and Terespol–Brest.
Under the newly signed regulation, Bobrowniki–Bierestowica will reopen for freight traffic, but only for vehicles registered in EU and EFTA countries as well as Switzerland, for passenger traffic, including buses. Kuźnica Białostocka–Bruzgi will reopen only for passenger traffic, but excluding buses.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk hinted at the reopening in October, emphasizing that the move would be taken “on a trial basis” and in consultation with Lithuania. The government stressed that the decision responds to “long-standing expectations” of residents and businesses in the region, including transport companies.
According to the ministry, the reopening is possible thanks to what it described as tight and effective border protection. “In Prime Minister Donald Tusk’s assessment, the benefits for Polish residents and businesses outweigh the risks,” the Interior Ministry stated. It added that the functioning of both crossings will be closely monitored, and if any security threats arise, the government may consider closing them again.
Of the six road crossings along Poland’s border with Belarus, four will remain closed: Sławatycze, Połowce, Bobrowniki, and Kuźnica.
(aj)
SOURCE: IAR; PAP