In response to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, several European nations, including Bulgaria, have reviewed their civil defense infrastructure. A recent map detailing civil defense and fallout shelters across the country, published by the University Rescue Squad (URS), a component of the Bulgarian Youth Red Cross, aims to increase public awareness regarding these facilities. According to fire service data, Bulgaria possesses 247 designated civil defense and fallout shelters.
However, the readiness rate is a key concern, as only 18 shelters are currently operational for their intended purpose. Officials note that the remaining facilities can be made functional within a week. Each shelter is assigned an official responsible party tasked with maintenance, and the fire service conducts biannual inspections.
In Sofia, City Hall reports that ten of the city’s 92 shelters have undergone overhauls in the past two years, with renovations beginning on six more, and the remainder scheduled for repair within four years. Many of these facilities are situated within schools and kindergartens. URS volunteer Radinel Pargov, who compiled the map, noted that some publicly known shelters are not included in the official inventory because they are privately owned and not managed by the fire service.
He advised that these private shelters can be utilized by local residents, provided they are within a private building. Pargov also highlighted that many settlements and parts of Sofia lack dedicated civil defense shelters. For the capital, the underground Metro system represents the largest potential shelter, capable of accommodating over 900,000 people.
Additionally, the National Palace of Culture, underground garages, and tunnels can serve similar protective functions against a potential bomb threat.
Topics: #bomb #shelters #bulgaria
