Vilnius has five authorized beaches that are supervised by lifeguards. True, they are only on duty during the official summer season which, upon orders of Vilnius Municipal Administration director, starts on 1 June. Until then, city residents who wish to refresh in cool water do so at their own risk.
Each beach with its own audience
Each beach in Vilnius has a more-or-less stable “clientelle.” The Salotė lake in Pilaitė district attracts mostly residents of near-by areas. So far, its shores are predominantly enjoyed by youths – early summer has enticed school students who come here on foot.
The Neris bank beach in Žirmūnai is also mostly frequented by locals. The beach “grew” bigger this year – the official recreational zone has been expanded by 100 meters in both directions along the bank. The city authorities have also taken care of driveways, cut down bushes, built a mobile pier.
The Green Lakes are also a popular destination with the youth. Lifeguards on duty in this beach have repeatedly complained that they are unable to deal with youngsters who drink alcohol and have had to ask the police for help. The lifeguards wish there were more officers to be seen on patrol in the area, to discipline the bathers.
The first beach of Valakampiai is favored by families with small children. A new kids' beach has been opened this year. The second beach attracts more youngsters.
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| Irmanto Gelūno/15min.lt nuotr./School students walk to Salotės lake in Pilaitė |
Commission gave a nod
A special municipal commission has already inspected how Vilnius beaches have prepared for the new season. The panel had no remarks, even though the final word belongs to Vilnius Public Health Center.
Saulius Valickas, chief specialist with Vilnius Municipality, says his department has done a good job this year to upgrade town beaches and visitors should not be disappointed.
“1.1 thousand cubic meters of sand have been brought to all the beaches. 10 new information stands have been erected, to warn people of hazards. All public toilets have been cleaned up and sanitized, we have bought new lifebuoys, life-vests, 17 sets of equipment for lifeguards. We've cleaned floor in all swimming areas,” Mr Valickas listed the accomplishments.
More lifeguards considered
Vilnius beaches will also get more parasols – the town has ordered 10. The municipality has also repaired basketball backboards and waste-bins, built about 60 new ones.
The number of lifeguards is to remain unchanged this season – 10. It has been noted that it is not enough, but the authorities say there is no money to hire more staff. According to Mr Valickas, though, the question of increasing the force is on the municipal agenda this year.
The city budget has put aside 350 thousand litas (around 100 thousand euros) for the upkeep of beaches – same as last year. The municipal company “Akvalangas,” that previously supervised Vilnius beaches, has been reorganized and now “Grinda” is put in charge.
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| Irmanto Gelūno/15min.lt nuotr./Summer season has kicked off in Vilnius beaches. |
