The "odd-even" system is a temporary measure regulating cars' access to filling stations, introduced by the authorities of Nizhny Novgorod Oblast on 9 July 2026 in response to an acute fuel shortage. On odd-numbered days of the month, only cars with license plates ending in an odd digit were served at gas stations, and on even-numbered days, those ending in an even digit. At the same time, limits were imposed on the volume of fuel sold per customer.
Reasons for introduction
The first acute episode of fuel shortage in the region occurred in the second half of June 2026: gasoline prices rose sharply, and multi-hour queues formed at filling stations. The shortage was triggered by Ukrainian drone attacks on fuel infrastructure. Alongside the introduction of the "odd-even" system, the authorities launched an interactive online map showing fuel availability at gas stations.
Operation of the system
In the first days the restrictions were in effect, volunteers and law enforcement representatives were on duty at filling stations. Once tensions eased, the need for constant duty disappeared. In mid-August 2026, when the shortage resumed, violations of the system became more frequent. According to the regional Ministry of Energy and Housing and Utilities, the drop in supplies combined with disruptions in logistics chains led to a "cascading" shutdown of a number of filling stations. In connection with this, on 13 August 2026 volunteers and police returned to duty at gas stations.
Sources
Materials used from articles (3)
Fuel Shortages and Gas Station Queues Return to Nizhny Novgorod (August 2026), Resumption of Volunteer and Police Duties at Nizhny Novgorod Gas Stations (August 13, 2026), Fuel supply reduction at Lukoil stations and restrictions at Gazprom Neft stations in Nizhny Novgorod region (August 2026)