Tallinn installs first civilian modular shelter; experts say crisis preparation pace insufficient

First modular shelter project

The first civilian modular shelter in Estonia was installed in central Tallinn. It is a pilot project, and city officials plan to hold a competition to evaluate the installation of such shelters in other districts. The shelter was brought by trucks from Ukraine, where such structures are already in practical use. It cannot withstand a direct hit but is intended for short-term protection against shockwaves and shrapnel, which are the main danger during an air attack. The modular design allows for quick assembly and relocation, and it can accommodate approximately 20–30 people.

Expert opinion: preparation pace insufficient

Crisis researchers acknowledge some progress in shelter preparation but note that Estonia's overall readiness to protect its population and its civil defense infrastructure are still in a very early stage of development. The situation has improved due to legislation setting requirements for shelters and public refuge areas in new buildings, but existing shelter infrastructure remains inadequate. Hannes Nagel, head of the Crisis Research Center, points out that there are areas in Estonia and types of buildings where creating shelter spaces is impossible. For example, in Tallinn's Haabersti district, 16-story apartment buildings have no basements in their standard designs, making it impossible to equip shelters there.

Funding issues

Nagel considers the shelter initiative in the capital a positive step, but more shelters are needed, including in other Estonian cities. Converting a basement or lower floor into a more reliable shelter meeting requirements requires significant funds, which many apartment associations cannot afford. Therefore, it is important for local governments or the state to find appropriate financial support mechanisms, rather than limiting themselves to small grants of a few tens of thousands of euros.