Over 2,000 trucks are sitting in a queue on the Russian side of the Upper Lars border crossing right now. The only direct road link between Russia and Georgia, also known as Kazbegi-Lars or Верхний Ларс, is running avalanche tunnels in reverse mode, limiting traffic to one-way alternating flow. If your cargo or personnel need to cross, here is what you need to plan around.
Current Conditions at Upper Lars (January 2026)
As of January 5, 2026, severe winter weather has created dangerous conditions at the Upper Lars checkpoint:
- Road Status: Technically open for light vehicles only
- Movement: Restricted to avalanche tunnels in "reverse mode" (one-way alternating traffic)
- Truck Queue: Over 2,000 vehicles waiting on the Russian side
- Delay Estimate: Multi-day delays for cargo transport
- Avalanche Risk: HIGH - active warnings in effect
💡 Advice for Logistics Operators
Defer all non-essential cargo and personal travel via Kazbegi. Monitor weather reports for avalanche warnings before attempting travel. Consider the Sarpi (Turkey) crossing as an alternative, though post-holiday congestion is present.
Why Upper Lars Matters for Regional Operations
Upper Lars matters for three reasons:
- Only direct Russia-Georgia road link: There's no other road crossing between these two countries
- Transit corridor: Essential for goods moving between Russia, Armenia, and Iran
- No current alternatives: The proposed "Trump Route" (TRIPP railway through Armenia/Nakhchivan) is still in discussion phases
Historical Context: Border Disruptions
This crossing has a pattern of shutdowns:
- Winter closures: Avalanche risk regularly closes the road from December through March
- 2022 exodus: Massive queues formed when Russians fled mobilization
- Political tensions: The crossing has been closed during periods of Russian-Georgian conflict
Alternative Routes for Logistics
Sarpi Border (Georgia-Turkey)
Currently experiencing post-holiday congestion but operational. Best for cargo destined for Turkey or Mediterranean shipping routes.
Lagodekhi Border (Georgia-Azerbaijan)
Open but requires transit through Azerbaijan. Additional documentation requirements apply.
Air Freight
Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) handles cargo operations and may be preferable for time-sensitive shipments during winter border closures.
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- Upper Lars is currently in critical condition due to winter weather
- Expect multi-day delays for any cargo transport
- Light vehicles can pass through avalanche tunnels, but with significant delays
- Consider alternative routes (Sarpi, air freight) for urgent shipments
- Monitor local social media channels and weather reports for real-time updates