Lithuania updates civil defence shelters, proposes multi-purpose underground centres

Lithuanian municipalities are modernising civil defence shelters and considering the construction of universal underground centres that could serve both recreational and emergency protection purposes, LRT reports.

The government has allocated €14 million for shelter upgrades, with around 750 shelters nationwide capable of housing up to 1.5 million people. The Association of Local Authorities in Lithuania has proposed building multi-functional underground facilities that combine leisure infrastructure—such as sports halls—with emergency protection needs.

In Kalvarija municipality, three school basements will be modernised by year’s end, with another three planned for 2027. The district has 19 shelters in total, but officials note a shortage of suitable buildings. “The municipality isn’t rich in infrastructure. Most buildings under its control—administrative offices, cultural centres, and schools—are old,” said Liutauras Sinkevičius, an emergency preparedness officer.

Druskininkai has marked 19 shelters, five of which are currently being upgraded, with another five planned for next year. Improvements include accessibility for people with disabilities, proper ventilation, emergency exits, and adequate lighting. “We’re ensuring compliance with all technical requirements,” said Jurgita Rudienė, head of the town’s investment department.

Alytus district has identified 92 buildings that could serve as temporary shelters. Eleven are set to be upgraded from basic (up to five hours of protection) to second-level status, extending potential safety beyond five hours. “After implementing these projects, 11 shelters will reach second-level standards,” said Andrė Zenevičienė, head of the district’s finance and investment department.

Last year, the government allocated €16 million for shelter modernisation; this year’s funding is €2 million lower. Around 800 shelters are expected to be upgraded by the end of next year, out of approximately 750 nationwide.

Mantas Varaška, mayor of Kazlų Rūda, argues that modernising existing shelters does not fully address civil defence needs. He advocates for integrated underground centres, similar to those in Finland, which combine leisure facilities with long-term emergency capabilities. “These centres could accommodate 1,500 to 3,000 people, with showers, toilets, their own generators, satellite and radio communications—allowing people to stay not just for hours, but for days, without above-ground structures,” he said.

Varaška urged the government to develop standard design guidelines within the next four to five months for municipalities willing to pursue such projects. The Association of Local Authorities supports the concept and proposes forming a cross-institutional working group involving government, ministry, and association representatives. Funding could come from regional development programmes.

Currently, most shelters in Lithuania provide only short-term protection (up to five hours), with limited amenities for extended stays.