Chernobyl exclusion zone

Chernobyl Exclusion Zone Чорнобильська зона відчуження
Exclusion zone
Abandoned buildings in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone
Country	Ukraine
Established	1986
Area
• Total	2,600 km2 (1,000 sq mi)
Population  (2023)
• Total	0 (permanent residents)
Time zone	UTC+2 (EET)
• Summer (DST)	UTC+3 (EEST)

The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone (Ukrainian: Чорнобильська зона відчуження, Chornobyl's'ka zona vidchuzhennya) is a designated area of 2,600 square kilometers (1,000 sq mi) around the site of the Chernobyl disaster, which occurred on 26 April 1986 at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine. The zone was established by the Soviet Union soon after the disaster to restrict access to hazardous areas and reduce the spread of radioactive contamination.

Geography

The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone is located in the northern part of Ukraine, bordering Belarus. It encompasses the area within a 30-kilometer (19 mi) radius of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. The zone includes the city of Pripyat, which was evacuated following the disaster, and the town of Chernobyl, which serves as a base for workers involved in the ongoing cleanup and containment efforts.

History

The Chernobyl disaster was the result of a catastrophic explosion and fire at Reactor 4 of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. The explosion released large quantities of radioactive particles into the atmosphere, which spread over much of Europe. In response, the Soviet government established the exclusion zone to evacuate residents and prevent further exposure to radiation.

Radiation Levels

Radiation levels within the exclusion zone vary significantly. Some areas, particularly those close to the reactor, remain highly contaminated, while others have seen a reduction in radiation levels over time. The zone is monitored continuously, and access is restricted to authorized personnel and guided tours.

Flora and Fauna

Despite the high levels of radiation, the exclusion zone has become a unique sanctuary for wildlife. Species such as the Eurasian lynx, Przewalski's horse, and various bird species have been observed thriving in the absence of human activity. The zone has become an important area for scientific research on the effects of radiation on ecosystems.

Tourism

In recent years, the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone has become a destination for tourists. Guided tours are available, allowing visitors to see the abandoned city of Pripyat, the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, and other notable sites within the zone. Strict safety protocols are in place to minimize exposure to radiation.

Current Status

The exclusion zone remains uninhabited by permanent residents, although a small number of people, known as "self-settlers," have returned to live in the area. The zone is managed by the State Agency of Ukraine on Exclusion Zone Management, which oversees ongoing decontamination and containment efforts.

See also

• Chernobyl disaster
• Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant
• Pripyat
• Nuclear power
• Radioactive contamination