Cybersecurity expert criticizes Lithuania's storm response, calls for less red tape

Lithuania's response to a recent severe storm has drawn sharp criticism from cybersecurity expert Marius Pareščius, who lambasted the energy distribution company ESO for its slow restoration of power and services. Pareščius highlighted the plight of residents in remote areas, where access remains difficult even after a week without electricity.

"ESO was not prepared. We have once again fallen behind," Pareščius stated during a Delfi program. He questioned the nation's readiness for crises, asking, "What, are we going to count the second week?" The storm, which ravaged parts of Lithuania a week prior, caused widespread damage, with extreme situations declared in Anykščiai and Kazlų Rūda districts. As of Friday morning, approximately 6,000 consumers in the Anykščiai district alone were still without power.

“

ESO was not prepared. We have once again fallen behind. And then we still talk about how we are ready to win some war or at least survive? Electricity has not been restored for a week, so what, are we going to count the second week?

Pareščius also pointed fingers at municipal authorities, suggesting they should be better equipped with essential tools like chainsaws, fuel, and spare parts. He shared his own experience of facing institutional difficulties when attempting to clear potentially hazardous trees, even on private property. The expert advocated for empowering active community members who are willing to help with recovery efforts.

“

Municipalities should at least have five or ten chainsaws, spare chains, fuel tanks from which fuel could be filled, because now they don't have that.

He proposed that instead of penalizing proactive citizens, authorities should encourage and support them. This could involve providing basic equipment like chainsaw chains, sharpening services, or fuel, even for voluntary assistance. Pareščius believes that recognizing and thanking these individuals, perhaps with medals, would foster a more resilient community spirit.

The expert's comments come amid ongoing efforts to clear storm debris, with the military assisting in the Anykščiai and Kazlų Rūda regions. The storm, which occurred the previous Saturday, felled numerous trees across Lithuania, resulting in one fatality and four injuries. At its peak, over 268,000 consumers experienced power disruptions. Current regulations regarding tree felling, even on private land, are strict, requiring permits from municipalities and imposing fines and compensation for unauthorized removal, a system Pareščius believes hinders timely action.

“

I think that for extreme things, more active community members who come to help and who solve these problems with the community's hands, not with the municipality's hands, should not be punished.