How Exeter’s twin city of Yaroslavl is coping with Covid-19

Exeter is twinned with the Russian city of Yaroslavl, about 3 hours’ drive north-east of Moscow.  There are regular exchange visits between the two cities and we were preparing to welcome our Russian guests this year when the virus struck.  However, the Exeter – Yaroslavl Twinning Organisation (EYTA) is still very much in regular contact with our opposite numbers in Yaroslavl via zoom.

During our last virtual meeting we asked our Russian friends how the present situation was affecting their lives and it was quite interesting to compare daily life in our two cities.

In Russia masks and gloves have to be worn on public transport and in shops.  This is generally respected, although now, with the temperature at 25 degrees, people are finding it more difficult to comply.

Shops are now opening up again but with social distancing of 1.5 metres.  This is generally respected in Yaroslavl.

As here, people are working from home, if possible, but essential workers are still at their posts.  However, a gradual phased return to work is at present underway.

Schools have been closed and on-line teaching has been operating.  There are now plans for schools to re-open in early July for students who are due to take national examinations, especially those hoping to go on to further or higher education.

Cafes and restaurants are open, but only if they can provide outdoor seating.

Many Russians own small country cottages (dachas) and many people from Yaroslavl have been spending the whole of lock-down there or visiting their dacha at weekends.

Up until mid-June the death toll in Yaroslavl was 42.

For further information, please contact EYTA via the website www.eyta.org.uk