Fukushima plant begins radioactive debris removal after tsunami disaster

The Fukushima nuclear plant in Japan has commenced a challenging operation to remove radioactive debris, a crucial step towards its decommissioning. This operation, initiated by Tokyo Electric Power Company (Tepco), aims to extract a small sample of debris for analysis, which will provide insights into the conditions within the reactors. The operation was delayed due to technical issues but has now begun and is expected to take about two weeks. Approximately 880 tons of hazardous material remain at the site, a legacy of the catastrophic tsunami and earthquake that struck on March 11, 2011, leading to meltdowns in three of the plant's six reactors. The debris removal is considered one of the most daunting challenges in the decades-long decommissioning process. Tepco had initially planned to start the extraction on August 22, but had to halt operations due to equipment problems. The company is utilizing specialized robots, including mini-drones and a snake-shaped robot, to safely navigate the highly radioactive environment inside the reactors. This technological approach is essential given the extreme radiation levels present in the debris. In addition to the debris removal efforts, Japan has been releasing treated wastewater from the Fukushima plant into the Pacific Ocean, which has led to diplomatic tensions with neighboring countries like China and Russia. Both nations have imposed bans on Japanese seafood imports, despite Japan's assurances that the discharge is safe, a stance supported by the UN atomic agency. To promote local produce, Tepco has also initiated campaigns to market Fukushima-grown food, such as peaches, which are known for their quality. This initiative aims to rebuild the region's reputation and support its economy, which has been adversely affected since the disaster.