Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant Faces Power Crisis Amid Ongoing Conflict

The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine is currently operating without off-site power, relying on emergency diesel generators, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This situation has persisted for over a week.

With only a ten-day supply of diesel fuel on-site, the plant's six non-operating reactors, which require cooling, are at risk. Recent deliveries have been made from another location after a six-month hiatus in off-site supplies.

IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi emphasized the critical nature of having reliable external power and secure supply routes for nuclear safety. The loss of power was attributed to military activity near the Dnipro River, where the plant is situated.

Adding to the concerns, the IAEA reported three recent drone incidents at the facility, injuring two employees. The plant, seized by Russian forces in March 2022, has been a flashpoint in the ongoing conflict, with both sides blaming each other for attacks.

Source: www.thehindu.com