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Warsaw’s mayor has unveiled a $30 million initiative to enhance the city’s safety infrastructure over the next two to three years, focusing on constructing bomb shelters and implementing additional security measures.

This announcement comes in response to another threat from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who said he was “ready” for nuclear war if Russia’s existence was threatened. Mayor Rafał Trzaskowski emphasized the plan’s aim to “make the most significant investments that will allow us to prepare for any eventuality.”

A critical audit of Poland’s bomb shelter capacity has also revealed that the country lacks enough facilities to protect its population. According to a recent report, less than 4% of the population has access to adequate protective spaces. This shortfall is also impacted by the existing shelters’ “lack of compliance” with essential standards, missing technical features, and equipment necessary for safety during an unprecedented disaster. In addressing these gaps, the mayor outlined potential solutions, including the conversion of underground parking lots and metro stations into shelters.

Drawing inspiration from Kyiv’s effective use of its metro system to protect citizens during Russia’s invasion, Warsaw plans to repurpose approximately 7 million square meters of city space for this purpose.

The “Warsaw Protects” initiative goes beyond constructing shelters, proposing the enhancement of existing facilities with vital utilities such as electricity and water. Mayor Trzaskowski also highlighted the importance of preparing hospitals for potential crises and training residents on emergency response tactics.