Fukushima begins Phase 3 of ocean wastewater discharge
Phase 3 of the discharge of radioactive treated wastewater from the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant in Japan into the ocean has begun. Tokyo Electric Power (TEPCO), the plant operator, announced that the third phase has commenced after the completion of the first phase between August 24 and September 11, and the second phase between October 5 and 23. The wastewater will be released into the Pacific Ocean at a rate of 460 tons per day over the next 20 days.
The discharge will take place approximately 1 kilometer away from the coastline through a tunnel constructed below sea level. It is part of a plan to release a total of 31,200 tons of wastewater from the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant by March 2024. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has stated in their final report, conducted after inspections at the plant, that the plan meets safety standards.
However, the discharge plan has faced criticism from local fishermen, environmental activists, and neighboring countries, particularly China. They are concerned about the potential impact of releasing radioactive water into the ocean. The Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant suffered significant damage from a tsunami triggered by a 9-magnitude earthquake in March 2011. As a result, the surrounding area was designated as an “evacuation zone” due to the radioactive fallout.
The commencement of the third phase of wastewater discharge marks another step in addressing the ongoing issue of radioactive water storage at the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant. With varying opinions and concerns raised regarding the potential consequences, the authorities will continue to closely monitor the situation and ensure that safety standards are maintained throughout the process.
