Located in so-called “grey-zone” areas, residents of Lobacheve struggle to access vital goods and services in Zhovte, which is located beyond government control.
“Our children cannot attend school, kindergarten, or see a doctor at a clinic,” says Head of Zhovte Village Council, Maryna Romanova. She is originally from Lobacheve.
Left with limited access
In Lobacheve, residents must embark on a two-hour long walk through a rough dirt road and several military check-points to access medical care. There is no public transportation in the government controlled area.
Consequently, many locals spend one fourth of their monthly salary on private transport to reach social service facilities.
“You are a lucky person if you have your own vehicle,” says Romanova.
Residents have applied to local authorities for access to transportation. As their requests are ignored, schoolchildren must travel 59 kilometres to go to school.
Meanwhile, there are no options available for pre-school children in Lobacheve, and mothers are forced to look after them at home.
A risky journey
Most of the residents in Zhovte have strong family ties in Lobacheve. Before the war, the two villages were only separated by a ferry ride across the Siversky Donets River.
Since authorities cancelled boat services, it has become difficult for families to visit each other.
During winter, people cross the frozen river to see their relatives.
“When they walk, they really take the risk of falling through the ice. Such risks on the ice can cause a tragedy,” says Romanova.
One of few providing help
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) offers free legal information and advice at the community centre in Lobacheve. In addition, the NRC provides elderly people and families with small children with hygiene kits.
Maryna Romanova works determinedly to provide the people of Zhovte with electricity, water, and gas. From time to time, she takes the risk to find a way to get from Zhovte to Lobacheve, her original home.
“I have been staying in the village from the very first days of the conflict. This is my native soil - I was born here. It’s my moral duty not to abandon people in such difficult times,” she says.
“People come and ask for help. If I leave, who will do it?” she asks.
People come and ask for help. If I leave, who will do it?Maryna Romanova, Head of Zhovte village council
