Uncovering Clues after a Meltdown
Drones and a snake-like robot have provided a rare glimpse inside the wrecked reactor of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, offering vital clues to aid in the plant’s delicate decommission process.
Exploring the Extent of Damage
The drone captured the extent of the damage inside reactor No.1, the hardest-hit of the six reactors, 13 years after the catastrophic 2011 meltdown that shook the world.
Challenges in Examination
Reactor 1 to 3 pose difficulties in examination due to high radioactivity levels and fuel leaks. Approximately 880 tons of highly radioactive melted fuel remain inside the damaged reactors, necessitating safe removal for full decommissioning.
Technological Breakthrough
A lightweight drone, along with a snake-like robot, successfully ventured into the reactor’s containment chamber, shedding light on the immense task ahead. Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings designed the drone to pinpoint the fuel’s exact location, crucial for future removal efforts.
Slow Progress and Ongoing Challenges
Engineers face a protracted process as they cautiously navigate the aftermath of the Fukushima disaster. The cleanup and decommissioning efforts continue, with substantial hurdles still to overcome.
Environmental Impact and Cleanup Timeline
Radioactive material released into the air during the disaster prompted the evacuation of 160,000 people. Despite efforts to filter and release contaminated water into the ocean, critics doubt the feasibility of the 30 to 40-year cleanup timeline set by TEPCO and the government.