Kaunas bridge builder Autokausta allowed to voluntarily compensate for environmental damage

The construction company Autokausta, building a pedestrian bridge in Kaunas, has been permitted to voluntarily compensate for environmental damage to the Neris River after authorities found no grounds for criminal proceedings, LRT.lt reports.

Kaunas District Police announced on Monday that no pre-trial investigation would be launched over the alleged illegal deepening of the Neris riverbed near Kaunas Castle during bridge construction. However, the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) confirmed that harm was caused to the river’s natural bed, estimating the damage at €42,400.

According to the EPD, the police decision not to initiate a criminal case does not mean environmental laws were not violated or that no damage occurred. Scientific measurements confirmed changes to the river’s hydrology and bed structure, prompting authorities to set a May 17 deadline for the company to pay voluntary compensation.

If the company fails to meet the deadline, the EPD will pursue further legal action, including administrative proceedings and civil claims for damages.

The controversy began last August when individuals reported potential environmental violations during the bridge’s construction in a Natura 2000-protected area. Investigations revealed that the company had deepened the riverbed beyond approved project limits, altering the river’s natural flow and bed structure.

Autokausta has denied wrongdoing, with company head Juozas Kriaučiūnas previously stating that work was carried out according to the project and that damage claims were “theoretical.” The bridge, which began construction last year, is expected to be completed by July 2027.