New security challenge as drone attack breaches Chernobyl arch
Experts from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and Norway have confirmed that the arch at Chernobyl, following the attack by an unmanned aerial vehicle, no longer protects the sarcophagus that separates the world from harmful radiation.
Representatives of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority visited Chernobyl to assess the impact of the drone attack 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," according to the expert report.
Norwegian experts assessed the impact of the drone attack on Chernobyl
The drone attack that took place on 14 February caused severe damage to 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," reports PostPravda.
Norwegian experts, under the Nansen programme for Ukraine, had the opportunity to view the technology building and the north garage of the Main Crane System, which were the 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 information stated.
The arch irreversibly damaged, what's next for radiological protection?
€400,000 was allocated from the International Cooperation Fund for the reconstruction of the arch. The experts' visit aimed not only to assess the damage but also to discuss further cooperation and support for Ukraine in the field of 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," the communication reads.
It has been 37 years since the Chernobyl disaster occurred, having taken place exactly from 25 to 26 April 1986. The current situation shows how essential it is to continuously monitor and secure this site. Amid ongoing Russian aggression, international cooperation in radiological protection becomes crucial for the region's safety.
