Fukushima journalist warns government has 'reneged on commitment' as outrage grows over Fukushima water discharge

The Japanese government's decision to discharge nuclear-contaminated water into the Pacific Ocean has ignited widespread anger, according to Fujikura Hidekazu, a journalist from Fukushima actively involved in anti-nuclear campaigns.

"The government had made a commitment that no disposal of nuclear-contaminated water would take place without the understanding of relevant people... However, the government has reneged on this commitment too easily," Hidekazu warned.

He further highlighted the significant impact on vital sectors like agriculture and fisheries in Fukushima.

As of August 27, a petition against the discharge has garnered over 60,000 signatures, with 50,000 added after the government's recent decision.

"The number of signatures on the Internet exceeded 60,000 yesterday," said Hidekazu.

Hidekazu also criticized Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) for its last-minute disclosure of the discharge plan.

"Such an attitude from TEPCO will only further diminish public trust," he said.

Despite the government's decision, Hidekazu assures that the fight isn't over. 

"We will persist in demanding the repeal of the discharge policy and the termination of the process... We will ensure it comes to a complete stop," vowed Hidekazu.

The Fukushima Daiichi plant was destroyed in 2011 after a tsunami triggered by a 9.0 magnitude earthquake. In 2015, TEPCO and the government committed to not discharging contaminated water without the consent of local stakeholders. Despite this, the unilateral decision to proceed with the discharge was made, potentially posing a long-term hazard to global marine life and human health.

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