Kyiv: Ukraine raised alarms on Saturday after confirming that two power lines linking its electricity network to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant were severed overnight, placing the facility at the precipice of a potential catastrophe.
The Zaporizhzhia plant, entangled in conflict since its capture by Russian forces the previous year, faced significant risks due to the compromised power lines. Both sides have accused each other of jeopardising the safety and integrity of the plant.
Responding to the blackout, Ukraine's nuclear energy operator highlighted the severity of the situation, indicating that the nuclear facility had to resort to powering its essential operations using 20 diesel generators.
The statement issued by the operator emphasised that the plant was on the verge of a potential nuclear and radiation incident before Kyiv managed to restore the off-site power supply, averting a potential disaster.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed the temporary loss of off-site power to the Zaporizhzhia plant, marking the eighth blackout occurrence since the onset of the conflict. Further details about the incident were expected to be provided by the IAEA at a later stage, reported AFP.
Throughout the 21-month conflict, the Zaporizhzhia plant, equipped with six reactors, has endured relentless shelling and drone attacks. In September 2022, the facility ceased supplying electricity to Ukraine's grid.
The IAEA has been actively monitoring the safety measures at the plant, underscoring the critical need for ongoing maintenance to prevent potential overheating and maintain operational safety.