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During the Soviet era, Barentsburg was used as a poster-child for Communism in the Arctic region, and as such was well-maintained and populated. However, following the collapse of the [[USSR]], [[Kremlin]] funding was significantly reduced and the town consequently fell into decay, and today is a mere shadow of its former self. Its outward image is depressingly run-down in comparison to its lively and prosperous neighbour Longyearbyen, and its population continues to decline.
==2006 Fire==
On October 17th, 2006 Norwegian inspectors detected an underground, smoldering fire in Barentsburg, prompting fears that an open fire might break out[http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2006/11/01/europe/EU_GEN_Norway_Svalbard_Coal_Fire.php], which would have forced the evacuation of all of Barentsburg for an indefinite period of time, and also cause unknown environment problems for the entire archipelago. As of November 3rd, the fire seems to be contained, but there are lingering concerns about the mining company [[Trust Arktikugol]]'s lack of equipment to handle the problem[http://www.aftenposten.no/nyheter/miljo/article1520002.ece].
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