Ukraine's first underground school under construction in Kharkiv

Ukraine's eastern city of Kharkiv has commenced the construction of the country's first fully underground school in a bid to shield pupils from frequent bomb and missile attacks by Russia.

A view of a kindergarten damaged during drone strikes in Kyiv, Ukraine 25 November 2023. Ukraine's Air Force Command of the Armed Forces said it downed 71 of 75 drones in an overnight attack, 25 November, in what Kyiv authorities called the most intense attack on the capital since the start of the invasion.

Photo: EPA/SERGEY DOLZHENKO

The underground school will serve as a shelter, allowing Kharkiv children to continue safe face-to-face education even during missile threats.

It will also be able to accommodate children and adults from nearby kindergartens, offices, and other institutions in case of air raids.

Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city with a pre-war population of over 1.4 million, faces daily Russian rocket and missile attacks due to its proximity to the border, prompting the need for protective measures.

Construction of the underground school commenced approximately a month ago, with a pit already excavated to a depth of nearly 10 meters.

The flooring and walls will be constructed according to the latest standards and technologies. The state has allocated approximately UAH 100 million (USD 2.78 million) for its construction.

The initiative comes as many schools in frontline regions have resorted to online teaching due to the ongoing Russia's invasion.

Ukraine's Ministry of Education reports the destruction of 365 educational institutions and damage to nearly 3,800 throughout the country in the wake of Russia's attacks.

(ał)

Source: IAR, Reuters