The Swedes say they’re content with the campsite the Kyiv authorities pitched for them, but still have reservations.
During a Kyiv Post visit to Trukhaniv Island on June 10 where some 5,000 Swedish campers are staying, camp leader Ingo Soderland said the area still lacks electricity and hot water showers only started working that day.
Soderland added that the quality of the ground is questionable in some areas making it difficult to pitch tents with stakes that don’t hold in the ground.
“I was shocked when I saw an older couple pitch a tent right on the sandy beach,” said Soderland.
According to the camp’s specifications, there are supposed to be 1 portable toilet for 50 persons; one shower for 161 persons, one security guard for 50 persons and enough space for 6,446 people.
This they finally have except for electrical outlets. The area has WIFI, several cafes, rentable bikes, and other amenities.
“I’m getting mostly positive feedback,” said Soderland. “The weather and rain has delayed getting access to electricity.”
Staying in hotel rooms, these fans came to have a look for themselves to see what’s all the hoopla about.
Soderland admitted however that he has had to have high level talks with the capital’s Euro 2012 officials and with the head of security on a daily basis to voice his concerns. Public criticism has also prompted authorities to finish what they promised to do.
“We could tolerate up three to four days,” said Soderland. The fact remains, this area was supposed to be ready before the Swedes arrived.
The Swede added, “We love camping, we normally do this, the main point is to be together, connect with people and support the national team.”
The sandy ground has made it difficult to pitch tents firmly.
There are plenty of portable toilets and rentable bikes.
The daily rain showers have turned many of the unpaved, dirt roads into marshy mud.
Kyiv Post staff writer can be reached at [email protected].
