FUKUSHIMA: Approximately 5,500 liters of radioactive water leaked from Japan’s Fukushima nuclear plant, according to Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO), the facility’s operator. The leak, detected at a part of the plant processing contaminated water, prompted immediate action, although no contamination beyond the facility has been reported.
The spokeswoman from TEPCO assured that there have been no significant changes in radiation levels around the power station. Nonetheless, as a precautionary measure, TEPCO plans to remove soil from the area suspected of contamination.
The Fukushima plant, devastated by a massive earthquake and tsunami in 2011, continues its cleanup operation, expected to span decades. The most hazardous phase, involving the removal of radioactive fuel and debris from three damaged reactors, is yet to commence.
In a separate development, Japan faced scrutiny for gradually releasing treated wastewater into the Pacific Ocean, a process that commenced in August. While the United Nations atomic watchdog deems the release harmless, China and Russia have raised objections and imposed bans on Japanese seafood imports.
Wednesday’s leak occurred at a facility processing water before filtration at an advanced facility called ALPS. TEPCO attributed the incident to an oversight during routine cleaning, with vents left open contrary to protocol.
Additionally, smoke and sparks were observed at a fan of the Tsuruga nuclear power plant during decommissioning, although officials assured no injuries or radioactive leaks.
