Kauno district installs Lithuania’s first above-ground shelter

Kauno district has installed Lithuania’s first above-ground emergency shelter near a school in Garliava, costing 185,000 euros, LRT reports.

The 100-square-metre structure, built from 10 reinforced concrete segments, is equipped with autonomous lighting, ventilation, emergency exits, toilets, first-aid supplies, water reserves, and fire extinguishers. It is also accessible for people with disabilities.

Laurynas Dilys, deputy mayor of Kauno district, said the shelter was placed near Adomo Mitkaus primary school and a football stadium to serve students, athletes, and local residents in case of drone attacks or similar threats. He noted that the district has identified priority locations—particularly schools, hospitals, and social care facilities—where shelters are most needed.

Dilys added that Kauno district, one of Lithuania’s largest and unevenly urbanised regions, faces challenges in quickly reaching residents during emergencies. The most pressing needs are in the largest rural areas, such as Domeikava and Užliedžiai.

While above-ground shelters offer a rapid solution, Dilys emphasised that basements in apartment buildings and private homes can also serve as protection if properly prepared, such as by sealing windows with sandbags.

Audrius Klišonis, mayor of Plungė and president of the Association of Municipalities, praised the initiative, noting that similar solutions have been adopted in Ukraine. He highlighted that current building regulations do not require developers to include shelters in buildings under five storeys, leading to gaps in coverage. Above-ground shelters, he said, provide a faster and relatively cost-effective way to address the shortage.

Klišonis acknowledged that 185,000 euros is a significant investment but stressed that it remains a viable option where underground alternatives are not feasible.