Longyearbyen, the gateway to the Arctic Circle and the capital town of Norway’s Svalbard, is one of the most fascinating places on Earth.
This place is famous for its warm hospitality, northern lights, polar bears, and rich unique wildlife.
However, do you know people are not allowed to die or get buried here?
It’s been 80 or more years since the last death or burial happened here.
The reason? The reason is the Permafrost on Svalbard.
Permafrost is a frozen condition that doesn’t allow dead bodies to decompose, preserving them in perfect shape.
Although they had a small cemetery in the past, it released dormant viruses and bacteria when the permafrost thawed, bringing serious public health issues.
Hence, the authorities made new strict rules banning the deaths in the place.
As per the rule, terminally ill or near-death people are evacuated to mainland Norway to prevent any potential public health risks.
This law might seem bizarre but was a necessary step to protect people and the environment.