Can some russian explain why there are carpets laid as an outdoor walkway?
Overview
The image captures a dirt walkway located between aged, mid-rise apartment buildings characteristic of post-Soviet residential areas, shot during a cold, damp season as evidenced by bare deciduous trees and muddy ground. Multiple worn, traditional patterned area carpets are laid end-to-end covering the entire length of the muddy path, acting as a makeshift walkway. Two pigeons are visible standing on the carpets, while sparse hedges and leafless trees line both sides of the path, with more apartment buildings visible in the far distance. The post accompanying the image asks Russian viewers to explain the reasoning behind this unusual setup.
Origin notes
This image was shared as a meme on 9Gag, distributed via RSS, with the original title asking Russian users to explain the phenomenon depicted. This practice is common across many post-Soviet countries: in residential areas where sidewalks are unpaved, dirt paths become extremely muddy during rainy seasons or spring thaw, so residents repurpose old, discarded household carpets to cover the paths, preventing people from stepping in mud, keeping footwear clean, and reducing slipping risks. The image is widely circulated as a humorous, relatable example of typical everyday problem-solving in post-Soviet regions.