This bunker, built in the early 1980s, was intended to ensure that the 36 Rijkswaterstaat staff members could take safe shelter in the event of a Russian nuclear attack. They were responsible for ensuring that the storm surge barrier in Krimpen aan den IJssel could be safely closed, even during a crisis.
This nuclear bunker is one of the original 40 secret bunkers that Rijkswaterstaat owned for its lock keepers. In crisis situations, the staff could remain on-site in the bunkers. The bunkers are large and designed so that the staff’s family members could also stay inside. There was sufficient food, water, and diesel available in the bunker to stay underground for two weeks.