Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko has explained why the programme to install mobile shelters in the city has still not been implemented. According to him, the funds were allocated to district administrations, which managed them, but at the end of the year returned the unspent money.
“We allocated [funds] to the district administrations. Because they are the spending authorities, and at the end of the year they returned this money. They did not implement this project,” the mayor explained in response to a question from an LB correspondent.
According to Klitschko, Kyiv currently has more than four thousand shelters of various types — some are being repaired and new ones are being opened. As for mobile shelters, more than three million residents live in the city, while one such shelter can accommodate roughly 30–40 people.
“Shelters have already been purchased, and within a month the first batch — around 40–50 units — will be placed at public transport stops where there are no permanent shelters. We will continue this programme,” the mayor said.
At the same time, Klitschko acknowledged that the situation is extremely difficult when it comes to preparations for the next heating season — due to a lack of funds, staff and time. Nevertheless, he said the city is trying to find the money and opportunities to deliver the project, as safety is the number one priority.