Kyiv authorities deny mass evacuation rumors
The situation in the capital is under control, and there is currently no reason to consider an emergency evacuation of the capital city’s population of around 3 million.
The authorities are doing everything to minimize the consequences of Russia's constant attacks on critical infrastructure facilities, as reported by the chief of the Municipal Security Department at the Kyiv City State Administration, Roman Tkachuk, Ukrinform reports.
The official thus refuted the reports circulated in mass media claiming Kyiv authorities were allegedly planning to evacuate the population.
Tkachuk explained that as part of the preparation of the civil defense system, the city officials are forced to consider all possible options in the event of an emergency, including in the case of total and long-term blackout, as well as shutdown of water and heat supplies.
"The civil protection system must be prepared for various options, but this doesn’t mean that we are now preparing to launch an evacuation. To react the right way, we must have a plan for all possible scenarios," said Tkachuk.
He emphasized that the city authorities are doing everything to minimize the consequences of Russia's constant attacks on critical infrastructure objects for its residents. In each district, an average of 100 heating points will be set up, which will be activated in case of emergency situations this winter. They will be based at social facilities, since it is there that heating and power supply will be provided in case of a crisis. These points are equipped with everything necessary: heating, lighting, bathrooms, canteens, rest spots, warm clothes and blankets. In addition, the points will be equipped with emergency power generators and heat guns. If necessary, emergency personnel will be on duty at the locations.
"There is currently no reason to talk about evacuation. Indeed, we’re working out various plans, training people to react and be ready now. This is a very important step to avoid chaos in processes that should work to minimize risks to the public. Evacuation commissions have long existed in each district in case of completely different emergency situations – from floods to accidents at critical infrastructure facilities. It is important for us to avoid panic and misinformation, therefore, once again I ask the mass media not to manipulate information," Roman Tkachuk emphasized.
He added that the city's civil defense system operates in a higher alert mode and all emergency services are always ready to respond to any emergency. This is the main task of the system, especially now, as Ukraine is being hit by the aggressor every day.
As reported by Ukrinform, Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko said in the "Big Interview with Vadym Karpyak" at the joint telethon on Saturday, November 5, that the city had stocked up on diesel fuel, power generators, food, and drinking water. Heating points are also being organized.