AI-Powered Patrols Launch in St. Petersburg to Combat Winter Ice Hazards

Authorities in St. Petersburg announced on Monday that an AI-powered surveillance system has commenced monitoring rooftops for icicles, snow, and other dangerous ice formations following the season’s first snowfall.

The surveillance system, referred to as Gorodovoy, is made up of eight vehicles that patrol the city and scan buildings as they move along. When ice is detected on a non-residential structure, the property owner is liable to receive a fine of 100,000 rubles (approximately $1,230), according to transportation officials.

“With temperatures fluctuating between freezing and melting, the likelihood of ice accumulating on rooftops significantly increases,” officials stated in a release that marked the transition to “winter mode,” encouraging property owners to keep an eye on their roofs and prevent the accumulation of ice.

According to transportation authorities, Gorodovoy was trained to detect icicles late last winter. In 2024, it identified violations at 21 locations, resulting in fines totaling 2.1 million rubles (about $25,800).

This winter, patrols will focus on the central districts known for their historic architecture, where older cornices and roof designs present greater risks.

Ice-related incidents are a recurring danger in the city. At the start of last winter, there were 42 reports of falling ice from rooftops, and over 1,000 individuals sought medical treatment for injuries related to ice and falls throughout St. Petersburg and the greater Leningrad region.

In January, at least one fatality occurred due to someone slipping on black ice.

Transportation officials mentioned that Gorodovoy will maintain its continuous surveillance for potholes, graffiti, illegal structures, and other infrastructure issues along with its new winter responsibilities.