Every year, Cluj-Napoca hosts a significant international event that attracts visitors from all over the world, known as “Untold.” If you’re reading this, you may be looking forward to Untold Summer 2024 and we praise your enthusiasm. However, it is essential to be well informed about some relevant issues associated with this event.
In the summer of 2023, Untold started with an unexpected failure. On the opening day of the event, ZCJ News reported a disturbing statistic – 200 people experienced various medical problems. These ranged from severe headaches to drug-related incidents, including cases of fainting and physical injuries. In addition, the CJ Monitor revealed that there were 32 cases of people driving vehicles while under the influence of drugs. No doubt this marked a less than ideal initiation, suggesting potential concerns that could arise in the future.
During Untold week, a substantial number of people from Cluj, who usually enjoy the peace and quiet of the city, are forced to leave their homes temporarily. The loud music and constant noise generated by the festival disturbs their daily routine, representing a particular challenge for patients in local hospitals who need a quiet environment for recovery.
In addition, the festival imposes a tax on the city’s infrastructure, leading to road closures and significantly preventing the daily routine of its residents. Cluj’s streets are turned into a complicated maze of immobile vehicles, an exasperating situation that frustrates both its residents and festival participants. The idyllic and peaceful atmosphere that is typical of Cluj disappears during Untold, leaving its inhabitants longing for the serene days of yesteryear.
Despite numerous appeals from concerned citizens begging the government and city management to reconsider hosting Untold, their requests fell on deaf ears. They essentially prioritized financial gain over the well-being of the city and its residents.
Think of someone special in your life, such as your grandparents or an elderly family member. They cherish their early bedtime, don’t they? Now, imagine a situation where the noise level is not just loud, but three times louder than usual. It’s like increasing the volume of an already deafening experience.
And if you, or someone you know has had to spend the night in the hospital, you know that hospitals are often filled with noises that make it incredibly difficult to fall asleep. The sound of beeping machines, the chatter of medical staff and the general agitation can keep anyone awake. Loud music definitely keeps you awake. It’s not just a matter of inconvenience; it can also affect your well-being and recovery.
For example, the Cancer Hospital which helps both children and adults with cancer. It’s just a kilometer away from the Cluj Arena, where the Untold event takes place. Parents who have children with very serious illnesses are already going through a tough time. For them, things get even more difficult when they see their children unable to sleep because of the loud noise from the event.
So when we talk about events that ” explode” music to ear-piercing levels, it’s not just about the inconvenience of a sleepless night, it’s about the impact on the quality of life of the people in the area, especially those most in need of rest.
As we contemplate Untold Summer 2024, it is essential to reflect on how this event has affected Cluj-Napoca and its residents. Untold certainly provides a spectacle of music and lights, but we must also recognize the challenges it imposes on the city.
Change is possible. We have the freedom to advocate for the peace of our city, the safety of festival-goers and the peaceful environment of recovery that those in need seek.
Before you secure your ticket to Untold Summer 2024, take a moment to contemplate. Is the attraction of this event worth the countless problems it presents to our city and its residents? Perhaps there are alternative ways to enjoy the music and parties that don’t involve these complications. Let’s make choices that contribute to the betterment and tranquility of both ourselves and the city we call home. Together, we can improve the quality of life in Cluj-Napoca.
