Japan to reopen first nuclear plant since Fukushima disaster

Japan’s Sendai nuclear power plant received preliminary approval from the Nuclear Regulation Authority to reopen two of its reactors, which are to be the first to resume operations after the Fukushima disaster in 2011, RIA Novosti reported, citing the Irish Independent.

“Previously, safety inspections were merely design-based, but this time we focused on how to prevent severe accidents,” said the Nuclear Regulation Authority Chairman Shiuchi Tanaka, as quoted by the Irish Independent.

Before the final approval, the nuclear plant must still undergo a 30-day waiting period for public comment until August 15.

According to the 418-page report submitted to the Nuclear Regulation Authority, the Sendai plant reactors could withstand tsunami waves up to 15meters high.

All of Japan’s 48 undamaged nuclear reactors are currently temporarily closed, undergoing checks and necessary repairs after the Fukushima accident.

Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has repeatedly said it is necessary to open at least some of the reactors promptly, as the prolonged shutdown is severely impeding the country’s economy.

The Sendai nuclear power plant is located on Kyushu Island southwest of Tokyo, and is owned and operated by Kyushu Electric Power.