Chernobyl protection compromised: Urgent rebuild after drone strike
Experts from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and Norway have confirmed that after a drone attack, the arch in Chernobyl no longer adequately protects the sarcophagus from harmful radiation.
Representatives from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority visited Chernobyl to assess the impact of the drone strike on the sarcophagus cover, as reported by PostPravda.Info. "In its current condition, the Ark no longer adequately protects the radioactive remnants of the 1986 accident, and a reconstruction will be necessary," stated the expert report.
Norwegian experts assess drone attack impact on Chernobyl
The drone attack on February 14 severely damaged the arch covering the sarcophagus. "The fire brigade had been extinguishing the smoldering fire in that area for nearly two weeks. Regulatory authorities have determined that the attack on the Chernobyl plant has undermined the international community’s efforts to mitigate the effects of the 1986 Chernobyl disaster," PostPravda reported.
Under the Nansen program for Ukraine, Norwegian experts inspected the technology building and the north garage of the Main Crane System, the areas most affected. "The delegation from Norway had the opportunity to inspect the technological building, the area beneath the Ark, and the northern garage of the Main Crane System (MCS) of the New Safe Confinement, which suffered the most damage from the drone strike," the report stated.
Arch irreversibly damaged, what's next for radiological protection?
400,00 euros (432,000 dollars) have been allocated from the International Cooperation Fund for arch reconstruction. The expert visit aimed not only to assess the damage but also to discuss further cooperation and support for Ukraine in nuclear safety. "During the visit, a meeting was held with the ChNPP management, where the results of cooperation, the current situation at the plant, and possible further support from Norway were discussed," read the communication.
It's been 39 years since the Chernobyl disaster occurred, taking place from April 25 to April 26, 1986. The current situation highlights the importance of continuously monitoring and securing the site. Amid ongoing Russian aggression, international cooperation in radiological protection becomes crucial for the region's safety.
