One of the central topics of the 14th International Forum Arctic: Today and the Future named after A.N. Chilingarov was the forthcoming implementation of master plans for the development of Arctic agglomerations. In the coming years, the Far North should radically change its image—from a romantic and harsh land, not known for its hospitality and kindness, it should transform into a modern and comfortable space for everyday life. This will help attract more qualified specialists to the Arctic and increase the population of polar settlements, which will provide staff for the growing needs of the North Sea Route as an international transport corridor. In early December, Russian President Vladimir Putin instructed that current master plans be included in existing national projects, emphasising their strategic importance.

At the forum, a number of opinions were expressed on how the urban environment in the Arctic should be shaped. Sakhamin Afanasyev, a member of the Federation Council Committee on Federal Structure, Regional Policy, Local Self-Governance and Northern Affairs, noted at the session 'Comfortable Minus 40: Housing and Urban Environment in the Conditions of the Far North' that a revolution in Arctic urban planning is impossible solely through budget funds—large investment projects must participate in creating a comfortable environment. This includes the construction of infrastructure, housing, roads and other facilities. Nornickel was cited as an example, actively participating in the renovation of Norilsk, supporting non-profit organisations in the city, developing tourism and much more. In mid-December, Nornickel handed over the first house built as part of the renovation using modern materials and technologies. Overall, the company is implementing a systematic approach, participating in almost every aspect of life in the city and region. Incidentally, this also yields practical results—for example, Nornickel's specialists have accumulated extensive experience in construction on permafrost, which they gladly share with other Arctic companies.

There are plans to involve residents of the Arctic Zone of the Russian Federation special economic zone in financing the master plans. Maksim Dankin, General Director of the Project Office for Arctic Development (POAD), proposed to form an Arctic Fund from residents' tax deductions, from which funds would be used to develop local infrastructure. A special mechanism has already been developed and implemented to collect and utilise 'earmarked' taxes. By 2028, the expected annual contributions are projected to reach RUB 10 bn.

The master plan for the Tiksi-Naiba agglomeration was also unveiled during the forum session. The initial works will commence as early as 2025, involving extensive repairs to streets, public spaces and courtyards, along with the reconstruction of engineering facilities and networks. From 2025 to 2026, residents in the agglomeration will gain access to high-speed internet as part of the Arctic Synergy project.

The total investment in the project will amount to RUB 62.9 bn, with 62.9% allocated to transport and logistics, 9.4% to social infrastructure and 8.3% to urban improvements. The optimistic scenario for the agglomeration's development envisions its rapid growth as a major transport and logistics hub along the North Sea Route.

By 2035, the new port of Naiba is expected to handle up to 10 mn tons of cargo annually, comprising both hydrocarbons and international transit goods. By 2040, Tiksi-Naiba aims to become the leading transportation hub in north-eastern Russia. Olga Balabkina, Deputy Chairman of the Yakutia Government, emphasised that the project's goal is not only to revitalise Tiksi but to transform its role entirely. The aim is to replace the heroic settlement with a modern and attractive community where people will want to live and work.

The implementation of master plans for Arctic cities will be one of the most ambitious projects in modern Russian history. As Mikhail Kuznetsov, Director of FANU Vostokgosplan, highlighted, the current plan includes the implementation of over 160 projects, the creation of approximately 60,000 jobs, and the attraction of more than RUB 37 tn in investments over the next decade.   

Image attribution: Shutterstock

Image attribution: Shutterstock

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