Community Cleans Up Kärkna Nuclear Shelter

In a heartwarming display of community spirit, residents from Tartu and surrounding areas came together on Saturday for the nationwide "Teeme ära!" (Let's Do It!) cleanup campaign. This year's focus included the nuclear fallout shelter near Kärkna, owned by AS Terminal. Around 30 dedicated individuals braved the spring weather to restore the facility, demonstrating a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and civic duty.

The initiative, which saw participants from Kõrveküla and Nõelaküla, as well as local residents, highlights the power of collective action. The shelter's cooperative, Võibki, led by its chairwoman Sirli Paistu, played a crucial role in organizing the local effort. Paistu expressed her gratitude for the turnout, acknowledging that while many have their own commitments, the dedication shown was significant. She pledged that this was just the beginning, promising further efforts to maintain and improve the site.

AS Terminal, the owner of the shelter, supported the volunteers by providing refreshments, including sandwiches and pastries, along with coffee. This gesture of appreciation underscores the collaborative nature of the event, where businesses and community groups work hand-in-hand. For Estonians, events like "Teeme ära!" are more than just cleanups; they are deeply ingrained traditions that foster national pride and a sense of shared responsibility for the country's natural and built environment. The successful revitalization of the Kärkna shelter is a testament to this enduring spirit.

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People came from Kõrveküla and Nõelaküla, of course also our own residents. Well, the timing is such that everyone has their own little garden patch somewhere. But we will do more in the future too.