Chornobyl nuclear shelter damage raises serious safety concerns, Ukrainian regulator warns

The loss of the barrier function and lack of insulation in the new confinement at the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant, damaged by an enemy strike, have raised concerns about the instability of structures inside the facility.

Oleh Korikov, Head of the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate of Ukraine (SNRIU) and Chief State Nuclear and Radiation Safety Inspector, underscored these risks during a briefing at Media Center Ukraine.

“In reality, the new safe confinement no longer fulfills its intended functions. Under these circumstances, we are once again facing the issue of dismantling and dealing with unstable structures. Without a functioning barrier and proper isolation, the risk posed by these unstable elements becomes a pressing concern,” Korikov stated.

“This is an extremely urgent matter, yet we are unable to fully assess the situation at this stage, as the aftermath of the destruction has not been fully addressed. The response to this pre-design incident is still ongoing. As the recovery progresses, the operating organization will develop a plan, and together, we will determine the next steps. However, the danger remains significant, and we have yet to assess its extent fully,” he added.

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