Norway reinstates bomb shelter rule amid Russian tensions
Norway plans to restore the requirement for building bomb shelters in new buildings, a decision prompted by concerns over Russian aggression in Ukraine.
The Norwegian government announced its intention to reinstate the mandate for bomb shelters in new constructions. This move responds to growing worries about Russia's actions in Ukraine.
There’s more uncertainty around us. We must take care of the civilian population, in case of a ‘worst-case scenario’ with war or armed attack, said the Minister of Public Security, Emilie Enger Mehl, in an interview with the public broadcaster NRK.
The requirement for building shelters was previously enforced but was abandoned in 1998. Now, with rising tensions, Norway wants to reintroduce this mandate.
Norway: The requirement for building shelters will be restored
Polsat News reports that according to the new regulations, shelters must be integrated into buildings larger than 1,000 square metres.
The government proposes two types of shelters: those protecting against chemical and radioactive weapons and those designed for attacks with conventional weapons.
Shelters should feature various equipment, such as water supplies. It is also necessary to install toilets and other sanitary provisions. An emergency power supply should be ensured in case the power grid is damaged, emphasized Mehl.
These proposals will be included in a readiness report containing over 100 recommendations geared towards strengthening Norway in the event of war, extreme weather conditions, or pandemics.
Polsat News highlights that Norwegians, sharing a border with Russia, are particularly concerned about Putin's aggressive policies.
