The Algerian government is continuing its efforts to decontaminate former French nuclear test sites in the country's south. According to a statement issued by the Ministry of National Defence, the second phase of decontamination operations has begun at the Beryl E2 underground nuclear test tunnel in the In Ekker area of Tamanrasset. This operation aims to remove radioactive waste from the site using national expertise and resources.
The decontamination operation is being conducted under the supervision of the Ministry of National Defence, in coordination with the National Agency for the Rehabilitation of Former French Nuclear Tests and Explosion Sites in Southern Algeria. The work is being carried out in accordance with applicable national and international standards. The Ministry stressed that France's continued evasion of its criminal responsibility has left a persistent obstacle to development in both In Ekker and Reggane.
The Algerian state has mobilised all necessary human and material resources for the complex operation, which is a genuine test of the capabilities of national experts. The work will be carried out in strict compliance with all safety requirements and relevant international protocols and standards governing the identification of radioactive zones, the collection of nuclear waste, and its storage in specially designed concrete containers.
The decontamination efforts are part of Algeria's Glorious Revolution celebrations, marking the 72nd anniversary of the outbreak of the revolution. The Ministry of National Defence reaffirmed that Algeria is resolutely pressing ahead with efforts to decontaminate former French nuclear test sites, despite France's refusal to hand over records and maps identifying nuclear waste burial sites.
Algerian specialists are determined to achieve the comprehensive decontamination of the nuclear legacy left behind by French colonial rule in the country's vast southern regions. This will pave the way for the rehabilitation of these sites in the future. The Ministry described the operation as a significant step towards addressing the environmental and health impacts of French nuclear testing in Algeria.
The High Command of the People’s National Army has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the decontamination efforts. The army is working closely with the National Agency for the Rehabilitation of Former French Nuclear Tests and Explosion Sites in Southern Algeria to ensure the successful completion of the operation.
The decontamination of former French nuclear test sites is a critical issue for Algeria, with significant implications for the country's environmental and health security. The Algerian government has called on France to take responsibility for its actions and provide support for the decontamination efforts.
Key points
- Algeria is pressing ahead with decontamination efforts at former French nuclear test sites in the south despite France's evasion of responsibility.
- The Algerian state has mobilised all necessary human and material resources for the complex operation.
- The decontamination efforts aim to remove radioactive waste from the sites and rehabilitate them for future use.
