Fourteen years after a devastating earthquake and tsunami triggered meltdowns at Japan's Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, residents near the facility continue to voice concerns about lingering environmental risks and the prolonged decommissioning process. The March 11 anniversary has reignited discussions about nuclear safety and community recovery in the region.
In Okuma, a town bordering the plant, anxieties persist over accumulated contaminated water and radioactive waste stored across the area. While authorities maintain cleanup progress adheres to safety standards, some residents question the long-term viability of current disposal methods.
"We rebuilt our homes, but not our peace of mind," said one local business owner who requested anonymity. "Every truck carrying waste reminds us this isn't over."
Official estimates suggest complete decommissioning could take up to 40 years, with recent milestones including the removal of spent fuel from reactor units. However, technical challenges in extracting molten nuclear debris and debates over wastewater release timelines continue to complicate recovery efforts.
