Norway has announced that it will strengthen its border with Russia. However, the reason for this is not political tension, but ‘illegal border crossings’ by reindeer are the reason for the measure. “It is strictly forbidden to cross the border into Russia, including for reindeer,” the Agriculture Directorate clarified in a statement. Because that is also a costly affair for the Scandinavian country.
Reindeer know no boundaries – much to the chagrin of the Norwegian authorities. Because the migration of the animals to the neighboring country will cost the country dearly. Russia charges Norway high costs for this. The claims for compensation for the loss of pasture amount to several million euros.
Russia collects a hefty price per animal
For every reindeer that crossed the border this year, almost 50,000 crowns (approx. 4,300 euros) are needed in one of the applications. 42 animals grazed in the Pasvik Zapovednik Nature Reserve. Most are now back in Norway, only two are still on Russian territory.
The second application is even higher: almost 47 million crowns (about four million euros) are requested. This is a lump sum for the time when the reindeer visited Russia.
Norwegian employees are also not allowed to cross the border
Norway now wants to avoid these high costs: part of the approximately 150 kilometer long reindeer barrier from the 1950s is being reinforced over a length of seven kilometres. Placing the fence is a complex undertaking, as the workers are only allowed to stand on the Norwegian side. Without a Russian visa, it would amount to illegal entry if one of them set foot on the territory of neighboring countries, explains Magnar Evertsen from the Norwegian Directorate of Agriculture.
The costs of the fence amount to about 500,000 euros and, given the high demand for money from Russia, will be written off within a very short time. Construction work should be completed by early October.
But the culinary journey to Russia also had fatal consequences for the animals. Because it was feared that they might repeat their journey to the neighboring country, they were slaughtered by Norway…
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
