Tokyo: After hectic efforts, emergency workers are close to restoring power at a Fukushima nuclear plant, officials say. Engineers are expected to connect a new power line to four of the six reactors at the Fukushima Daiichi plant, north of Tokyo, by the end of Saturday.The earthquake and tsunami it triggered crippled the plant’s cooling systems, raising concerns over radiation leaks.
At least 7,200 people were killed in the disaster on March 11. About 11,000 more remain missing.
Firefighters have continued to spray water to cool the fuel rods at the Fukushima plant, in a desperate attempt to avert a meltdown.
The storage pools need a constant source of water to cool the rods.
Engineers have now connected a power cable to the outside of the plant.
Further cabling is under way inside to try to restart water pumps in four of the six reactors.
A nuclear safety agency official said: “We are scheduled to restore electricity at number one and two [reactors] today.
“Reactors number five and six also will be powered today. They are scheduled to restore power to number 3 and 4 tomorrow (Sunday).”
Workers are also boring holes in roofs to prevent a potential gas explosion.
Dear TNT Reader,
At The News Tribe, our mission is to bring you free, independent, and unbiased news and content that keeps you informed and empowered. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism, as we understand that we are a platform for truth.
Apart from independent global news coverage, we also commit our unique focus on the Muslim world. In an age marked by the troubling rise of Islamophobia and widespread misrepresentation of Muslims in Western media, we strive to provide accurate and fair coverage.
But to continue doing so, we need your support. Even a small donation of 1$ can make a big difference. Your contribution will help us maintain the quality of our news and counteract the negative narratives that are so prevalent.
Please consider donating today to ensure we can keep delivering the news that matters. Together, we can make a positive impact on the world, and work towards a more inclusive, informed global society.
Donate Monthly Subscription Annual Subscription