The 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster is known as the world’s worst nuclear accident. Thirty years after the explosion occurred, an international team of engineers is racing against time to ensure that a mega dome is constructed around the crumbling remains of the reactor in order to entomb them and prevent further release of deadly radiation. The structure will weigh an astonishing 36,000 tons and be the largest ever moved on land.
The consequences of this disastrous event are immense – thirty workers died immediately after the explosion, while 50,000 were evacuated from nearby cities due to radioactive fallout that turned an area larger than Lancashire (in United Kingdom) into a no-go zone. Scientists are still investigating its impact even three decades later and with every passing day it becomes more pressing for engineers to build a protective shield around Chernobyl’s reactor before another disaster occurs.
The challenge of building such a large structure in freezing weather and lethal radiation levels is no easy feat, but with a strong determination to save lives, engineers have been working tirelessly at great personal risk in order to construct this mega tomb. It is truly inspiring just how brave these dedicated individuals are and their efforts should be applauded.
If you would like to learn more about this extraordinary story or if you’re simply curious about how experts are dealing with this complex task then do not miss out on watching the documentary ‘Chernobyl’s Mega Tomb’ which covers all aspects of the race against time. As well as offering insights into what caused such a catastrophic event in 1986, viewers will also witness first-hand accounts of those who are determined to keep others safe from further harm by constructing one of mankind’s greatest super structures.
