European country orders war shelters to be modernised over fear of nuclear attack
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A European nation has ordered a massive investment into Cold War bunkers amid growing fears of a potential nuclear attack. The bunkers were originally installed in the 1960s when tensions were increased between the United States and Soviet Union. Switzerland, which doesn't have an army and is famed for its neutrality, has however decided the bunkers are in need of a revamp after some failed to meet conditions at a recent inspection. It comes 61 years after it decided every citizen should have access to a dedicated shelter in the event of a war breaking out.
With the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and increasing concerns about World War III, Switzerland appears ready to bolster its defences. According to the Huffington Post, the Swiss government plans to invest in upgrading these war shelters, which have never been used before.
These structures can accommodate local families, foreign nationals, and refugees. The 1963 law led to the creation of a vast network of reception centres integrated throughout Switzerland, located in private homes, apartment buildings, or communal spaces.
While these shelters often serve other purposes such as storage areas, wine cellars, or leisure rooms, their primary function remains the same - to protect people from missile attacks or radioactive fallout. However, recent 10-year inspections revealed that some shelters need maintenance and improvements, with issues like jammed doors, blocked ventilation, and obscured escape routes leading to fines for landowners.
