Germany has taken a significant step in preparing its citizens for the worst-case scenario, officially announcing its readiness for war in the face of escalating tensions with Russia. The country’s interior ministry has meticulously compiled a comprehensive list of state buildings, underground train stations, and even private properties that can be swiftly converted into emergency shelters to safeguard nearby civilians in the event of an armed conflict. To facilitate easy access, civilians will be able to pinpoint the location of nearby bunkers using a specialized phone app, ensuring rapid evacuation and minimizing panic. Furthermore, the ministry is strongly advising residents to fortify their basements and garages, transforming them into protective shelters that can provide a safe haven in times of crisis.
A spokesperson for the ministry described the undertaking as a “big project” that will require a substantial amount of time to materialize, emphasizing that its successful implementation will necessitate close collaboration with the Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance, as well as other key authorities.
Interestingly, the number of bunkers in Germany has experienced a significant decline over the past few decades, dwindling from an impressive 2,000 to a mere 600. Notably, most of these bunkers were constructed during the Second World War and the Cold War era, and collectively, they possess the capacity to provide shelter to a mere 480,000 people in a country boasting a population of over 84 million. This stark reality has compelled German officials to take swift action, particularly in light of the country’s intensifying tensions with Russia, which have been marked by a sharp increase in cyber and sabotage attacks perpetrated by Russia-backed actors.
According to Ralph Tiesler, the head of the Federal Office for Civil Protection, the process of rebuilding or reviving Germany’s network of bunkers may require an entire generation, underscoring the enormity of the task at hand.
It is worth noting that these measures are being implemented under the auspices of Germany’s Operation Plan, a comprehensive initiative that involves far-reaching coordination between federal and state governments, the military, security agencies, and emergency services to bolster the nation’s defense capabilities. Furthermore, the plan entails regular consultation between German businesses and the military to ensure effective war preparedness, a move that reflects the government’s commitment to leaving no stone unturned in its quest for national security.
(With inputs from agencies)
