In a significant development, the city of Kherson has announced an ambitious plan to allocate 100 million hryvnias in 2025 towards enhancing its infrastructure. The funds will be primarily used for road repairs and public transportation improvements. This strategic investment aims to modernize electric transport systems, maintain motor vehicles, and undertake various road-related activities. Additionally, part of the budget will support municipal enterprises responsible for these sectors. Meanwhile, the neighboring Mykolaiv region has also outlined plans to invest heavily in road maintenance and bridge repairs over the next few years.
In the vibrant autumn of 2025, the citizens of Kherson can look forward to substantial improvements in their daily commutes. Roman Mrochko, the head of the Kherson City Military Administration, signed an order allocating a generous sum of 100 million hryvnias to bolster the city's infrastructure. A significant portion, 54.7 million hryvnias, will be dedicated to maintaining and developing electric transport systems, ensuring greener and more efficient travel options. Another 22.4 million hryvnias will go toward sustaining and enhancing motor vehicle services, while 23.4 million hryvnias will cover other road sector initiatives.
The allocated funds will be instrumental in several key projects. These include the upkeep of traffic signals, repairing the trolleybus contact network, purchasing fuel, and ensuring that vehicles are well-maintained. The majority of the budget is earmarked for road maintenance and the development of public transport, with a focus on renewing the vehicle fleet and improving infrastructure. Moreover, some of the funds will support municipal enterprises by covering employee salaries, buying repair materials, and ensuring stable operations under current conditions.
Meanwhile, the Mykolaiv Region Restoration Service has committed to spending 722 million hryvnias on road maintenance from 2024 to 2027. In 2025, they aim to complete repairs on five bridges still under construction and address the urgent need to repair another seven bridges this year.
From a journalist's perspective, this investment represents a promising step toward revitalizing Kherson's infrastructure. It underscores the administration's commitment to improving the quality of life for residents by prioritizing essential services. The allocation of funds not only addresses immediate needs but also sets a foundation for long-term sustainable development in the region. With such comprehensive plans in place, the future of Kherson's roads and public transport looks brighter than ever.
Many expatriates face the challenge of maintaining vehicles that hold sentimental value, especially when they spend most of the year abroad. One individual shares his dilemma regarding two prized possessions—a 2000 Toyota Qualis and a 1984 Royal Enfield—both originally owned by his late father. The discussion explores potential solutions for long-term vehicle care in India, including garage services, family involvement, and alternative options like donation or relocation.
The question of whether specialized garage services exist in India to maintain vehicles for extended periods is a pressing one. While some countries offer seasonal maintenance programs, such as winterizing motorcycles in the US, similar services are not widely available in India. For those seeking professional help, finding reliable garages that can manage vehicles for 10-11 months annually remains a challenge. Many users suggest that relying on close family members might be an option, but this comes with its own set of risks and complications.
In the absence of formal long-term maintenance programs, owners must explore alternative methods to ensure their vehicles remain in good condition. Disconnecting the battery and securing the vehicles against environmental factors like rain and rodents is crucial. Some recommend starting the engine every few weeks to prevent mechanical issues. However, even this approach requires careful consideration of potential risks, such as accidents or misuse by caretakers. Users also highlight the importance of protecting vehicles from natural elements and minimizing unnecessary wear and tear.
Beyond traditional maintenance, several alternative solutions have been proposed to address the challenges of preserving sentimental vehicles. One suggestion involves importing the Royal Enfield to the United States, where regulations may be more lenient for older vehicles. This could provide a safer environment for long-term storage and maintenance. Another idea is to donate the Toyota Qualis to a charitable organization or religious institution, ensuring it continues to serve a meaningful purpose while honoring the memory of the owner's father.
For those who prefer to keep their vehicles in India, practical measures include using a trickle charger to maintain battery health and purchasing third-party insurance to mitigate potential risks. Some users advocate for converting the vehicle into a showpiece or giving it to trusted family members who can benefit from its use. Ultimately, the decision hinges on balancing emotional attachment with practical considerations. Many contributors emphasize the importance of weighing the costs and benefits, recognizing that sometimes letting go can lead to new opportunities for legacy and remembrance.
The automotive service industry has witnessed a significant divergence in market share between independent aftermarket facilities and dealerships, particularly concerning vehicles aged four to twelve years. The latest JD Power Canada Customer Service Index – Long Term Study reveals that the age and mileage of vehicles heavily influence where brake jobs are performed. Furthermore, regional differences play a crucial role in shaping this market landscape. Overall, the study highlights the varying performance of the aftermarket sector across different regions and vehicle age groups.
The relationship between vehicle age and customer preference for brake repair services is profound. For vehicles between four and seven years old, dealerships dominate with a larger share of the market, while for older vehicles, the independent aftermarket gains prominence. This shift indicates that as vehicles age, consumers increasingly turn to aftermarket providers for maintenance services.
In detail, the market dynamics reveal a 20% increase in the aftermarket's market share for vehicles eight to twelve years old compared to younger models. This trend suggests that vehicle longevity plays a critical role in consumer decision-making. Younger vehicles tend to retain dealership loyalty, whereas older vehicles see a surge in aftermarket interest. The study underscores that mileage also significantly impacts this preference, with higher mileage vehicles more likely to opt for aftermarket services due to cost-effectiveness and convenience.
Regional variations significantly impact the competitive landscape between dealerships and the aftermarket sector. Nationally, dealerships hold a slight edge over the aftermarket, but this balance shifts notably across different parts of Canada. In Western Canada, dealerships maintain a stronger presence, while Eastern Canada sees a more balanced competition.
Despite the overall lower market share in Western Canada, branded aftermarket outlets still command a respectable 13% share, indicating resilience in this segment. Interestingly, independent aftermarket service centers lead the market regardless of region or vehicle age. This dominance highlights the adaptability and reliability of independent providers. The 7th Annual Aftermarket Intelligence issue provides comprehensive insights into these trends, offering valuable data on market share, average billing, and service categories such as brakes, batteries, and transmissions. These findings serve as essential tools for professionals in Canada’s automotive aftermarket, ensuring they stay informed about the evolving market dynamics.