Longyearbyen · 78.22 N 15.63 E

Svalbard Wire

Est. 2026

Everything said about Svalbard, in one place

Thursday 29 October 2026No. 4Report

Back to the front of 29 October

Drinking water

Jensen asks if state will fund Longyearbyen water fix

Siren Julianne Jensen, of Miljøpartiet De Grønne (the Green Party), has asked the justice minister in a written question whether the government assists Longyearbyen's local authorities with the water supply, which is hit by high manganese levels. She also asks whether the government will help finance measures such as a treatment plant or a backup supply, the Storting said.

Jensen's question was dated Wednesday 21 October 2026 and sent on Monday 26 October. Justice minister Astri Aas-Hansen answered it on Thursday 29 October.

The Wire reported on Monday 26 October that the local council still advises residents against drinking tap water.

Earlier: Council still advises against drinking tap water in Longyearbyen; water supply decision due in December (26 October 2026)

Coverage: Stortinget