TOKYO: During a three-day tour of Japan, Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), addressed a leak at the Fukushima nuclear plant, describing it as “a minor incident” unrelated to the release of treated wastewater.
The leak, reported by plant operator TEPCO in early February, occurred at a section of the site dedicated to processing radioactive water. Despite initial estimates of five cubic meters, the volume was later revised to 1.5 cubic meters. Grossi clarified that the incident posed no significant consequences and was akin to a typical occurrence on a large industrial site.
Grossi emphasized that the leak occurred independently of the ongoing discharge of treated wastewater into the Pacific Ocean, a process endorsed by the IAEA. He reiterated that all radioactive elements, except tritium within safe limits, have been filtered out from the discharged water.
Addressing concerns raised by China and Russia regarding environmental pollution, Grossi highlighted positive changes observed during discussions with officials and students in the Fukushima region. He noted a shift from last year’s uncertainty to this year’s satisfaction regarding the discharged water’s minimal tritium presence.
The Fukushima Daiichi plant, devastated by a 2011 earthquake and tsunami, remains a focal point for nuclear safety efforts. With the clean-up operation expected to span decades, including the formidable task of removing radioactive fuel and debris, ongoing monitoring and international cooperation remain paramount.
