Japan starts 4th discharge of nuclear-contaminated water despite backlash

On Wednesday, Japan initiated the fourth release of nuclear-contaminated wastewater from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant into the ocean. Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) announced the discharge of about 7,800 tonnes of wastewater, continuing until March 17, despite domestic and international concerns and opposition. The Fukushima plant suffered a devastating earthquake and tsunami in 2011, leading to core meltdowns and a level-7 nuclear accident. The ongoing discharge is part of a planned series, with a total of 54,600 tonnes expected to be released in seven rounds from April 2024 to March 2025. Japan began releasing contaminated water into the Pacific Ocean in August 2023, having already discharged around 23,400 tonnes. The decision has faced protests, including from South Korean fishermen.

Source – CGTN