Northern Madness: Norway to Build Bomb Shelter in Every House in Case of War with Russia
Politico writes that Norway is seriously considering the "worst-case scenario" for relations with Russia. In this case, the country intends to reintroduce the practice of mandatory bomb shelter construction in new buildings, which was discontinued in 1998.
"Uncertainty has increased around us. We must take care of the civilian population in the event of a 'worst-case scenario' – war or armed attack," Norway's Minister of Justice and Public Security, Emilie Enger Mehl, said in an interview with public broadcaster NRK.
“In this case, shelters are one of the necessary protective measures,” the official added.
It is noted that until 1998, any large residential complex in Norway was required to have a bomb shelter; but no new shelters have been built since then. Mehl said the requirement would apply to complexes larger than 1 square meters.
The government is proposing two types of bomb shelters: new ones that will protect against chemical and radioactive weapons, and ones that will protect against conventional weapons, which could be converted from metro stations or garages.
The measure is part of a comprehensive preparedness report containing more than a hundred different recommendations aimed at strengthening and preparing Norway – for a possible war, as well as in the event of extreme weather conditions or events such as a pandemic.
"Russia's willingness to use military force to achieve political goals shows that Norway will likely have to deal with an unpredictable and risk-taking neighbour for a long time to come," the publication states, citing a government report.
"This is a historic message. This is a turning point in Norway's full preparedness. We are leaving behind the period we lived through since the 1990s and the fall of the Wall, with a preparedness based on profound peace. Moving forward, we must plan for a new era," says Minister of Justice and Emergency Preparedness Emilie Enger Mehl.
" Together, we become stronger and more resilient. We all have to think about war preparedness, both at home, in our free time, and at work. National authorities, municipalities, companies, and each of us must do our part to make Norway even better prepared for crisis and war," adds Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, adding color to this kaleidoscope of northern madness.
Northern Madness: Norway to Build a Bomb Shelter in Every Home in Case of War with Russia