Panevėžys fountain silent in heatwave after accident

Panevėžys residents seeking relief from the summer heat found the main square's fountain silent instead of spraying a cooling mist. The fountain, which began operating in May, has been out of service for a week, prompting questions from locals.

The issue stems from a burst water pipe in the underground room beneath the fountain. The escaping water damaged the control equipment, forcing the system to shut down. Saulius Venckus, CEO of 'Aukštaitijos vandenys,' which maintains four city fountains, explained the situation.

Repairs could not begin immediately after the accident. Rimantas Savickas, the company's operations director, noted that the underground space and its equipment required thorough drying and ventilation. Furthermore, the specific replacement parts needed were not readily available and had to be ordered.

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We ourselves understand the importance of the fountain. We hope that perhaps by Friday it will be possible to turn the fountain on again.

'Aukštaitijos vandenys' is working to resolve the problem quickly. The necessary equipment has been ordered, and suppliers have promised prompt delivery. Savickas expressed regret over the timing of the accident, occurring just before a heatwave hit the city center. He hopes the fountain will be back in operation by Friday.

While the Laisvės Square fountain is offline, residents can find refreshment at other fountains in Senvagė, near the Panevėžys Music Theater, and in the city park on Parko Street. However, the company reminds the public that fountains are not intended for swimming or drinking.

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The fountain is not a place where you can swim or drink water – drinking fountains are available for that purpose. And the mist can help refresh you.