Thermometric wells with automated measuring equipment will be drilled under all public facilities in the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Area over the next 10 years to monitor the current state of the permafrost and its future changes. This was mentioned in a video posted by Dmitry Artyukhov, Governor of the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Area, on his Instagram page, following the Russian Energy Week, the TASS news agency reports.

This method of monitoring the bearing capacity of soils under capital construction objects, which is affected by permafrost degradation, was developed by Yamal scientists in early 2021.

'There is a cryology and geotechnical safety laboratory in Yamal. Thermometric wells have been drilled in Salekhard, Labytnangi and Novy Urengoy for permafrost monitoring. Over the next 10 years, all public facilities in the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Area are set to be equipped with thermometric sensors', states the video. If necessary, specialists will be able to install additional supporting pile structures in case of foundation subsidence.

Scientists also used data from the lab to develop a special 'soil cement' that can withstand temperatures down to 50 degrees Celsius without deforming. An experimental section was laid in Salekhard.

'This data forms the basis of new construction developments for the entire Arctic region. Such timely work will keep us prepared for any changes', Artyukhov wrote in his post.

The Russian Energy Week International Forum is a Russian discussion platform dedicated to the challenges and prospects of the global fuel and energy complex. This year's conference is held in the Moscow Manege on October 13–15.