19.11.09

it won't be a metal detector that you need

Over 23 years later - people are touring the biggest nuclear disaster...
In April 1986, reactor number four at the Chernobyl nuclear plant, near Pripyat exploded. Further explosions and the resulting fire sent a plume of highly radioactive fallout over large parts of Russia and Europe. It meant over 300,00 people had to be evacuated and quickly. The town of Pripyat was completely emptied within a few days and they were ordered to bring only minimal clothing. A concrete temporary sarcophagus covers the plant and the land surrounding the area is inhabitable for humans. Pripyat is still considered radioactive.

Curious on what probably the most recent ghost town looks like? Well you can now take a radioactive tour of Pripyat and watch it be reclaimed by nature. Given a radioactive device and some very knowledgeable guides, wander this city and wonder how quickly nature would reclaim yours.
Ecological tours are based from Kiev (an easy flight from most major airports in Europe). You must be registered to visit the area - so make sure you have all your IDs, visas and papers in order (and with you!)
One last remark - some people still had to live here after the disaster to deal with the situation. There were no lights, no humans, no running water and everything you ate was imported. But for a while - you could still swim in the pool. That water can't have been healthy - unless chlorine really does kill everything.
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1 comment:

  1. I like this post, something raw but very real, my kind of travel. Good luck with your blog, I'm a fan already.

    Cate

    ReplyDelete