Japan's Fukushima Plant Continues Controversial Release of Treated Radioactive Water

Japan faces a complex and lengthy challenge in decommissioning the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, which was severely damaged in the 2011 tsunami and subsequent nuclear disaster. The process is expected to take between 30 and 40 years, much longer than usual due to unique challenges such as widely dispersed fuel and high radiation levels. The accumulation of treated radioactive wastewater has hindered progress, and Japan has faced criticism for its plan to discharge the water into the ocean. The full extent of the damage inside the reactors is still unknown, and financial considerations, including compensation and specialized equipment, contribute to the estimated final cost of $141 billion. Despite the challenges, there is hope that the decommissioning process will eventually make the area safe for people to return.