Uman municipal workers operated around the clock due to the influx of pilgrims
This year, Uman welcomed approximately 50,000 Hasidic pilgrims, the highest number in recent years. The city’s deputy mayor noted that the large number of visitors necessitated round-the-clock operation of municipal services during the celebrations.
“This is not easy, as we understand that our small city has essentially gained another city within its limits. Even after the pilgrims leave their accommodations, those who hosted them will continue to dispose of their waste,” said the deputy mayor, Hanych.
He anticipates that waste management will continue for at least another week or two as cleanup efforts persist.
Local resident Yulianna shared with Suspilne that the only inconvenience she experienced was increased traffic congestion. “In previous years, there were fewer visitors, making travel easier. This year, what used to take me 10 minutes to drop off my child now takes about 40 minutes. They are generally positive, and I haven’t seen them cause any harm,” she added.
Preliminary calculations suggest that the city budget will receive over 25 million UAH in tourist tax this year, with 15% of that amount allocated to cover utility expenses.
Context
- Hasidim from around the world travel to Uman each year to celebrate Rosh Hashanah, as it is home to the grave of Rabbi Nachman, the leader of the Breslov Hasidic movement. This year’s celebrations lasted from September 11 to 13.
