As the conflict in Ukraine continues, new chilling images have surfaced from the location of the world’s worst nuclear disaster. Photographer Genya Savilov, in collaboration with Greenpeace, received rare access to the site of the infamous Chernobyl nuclear catastrophe.
Greenpeace has raised concerns about the possibility of an uncontrolled collapse of the internal radiation containment structure at the decommissioned Chernobyl nuclear power plant, which could lead to increased radioactivity release into the environment.
Nearly four decades after the 1986 explosion that resulted in radioactive particles spreading worldwide, our visual showcase unveils the eerie present-day reality of the Chernobyl facility.
On April 26, 1986, a tragic explosion and subsequent fire at the Chernobyl nuclear plant initiated the release of radioactive materials into the air. While numerous individuals lost their lives immediately following the incident, the long-term casualties from radiation exposure are estimated to be in the thousands.
Oleksandr Skomarokhov, Chornobyl’s deputy technical director overseeing radioactive waste management, seen using a phone within the control room of the inactive reactor 3.
Images depict the control room of the inactive reactor 3, including a radiation warning sign on a panel in the ruined 4th block of the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant.
Engineers observed working in front of monitors inside the control room of the New Safe Confinement, a metal structure enveloping the containment structure of the devastated fourth reactor.
Valery Khodemchuk, the first casualty of the Chornobyl tragedy and senior circulating pump operator of the 4th block, remembered on a wall between blocks 3 and 4.
A visit to the Prometheus monument erected during the plant’s establishment and representatives from Greenpeace and the media touring the New Safe Confinement at the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant were captured in photos.
Engineers captured discussing operations in front of monitors within the New Safe Confinement control room.
