Analysis of factors impeding effective rehabilitation of contaminated territories in CA in a transboundary context
(Source: Information materials to Bishkek regional Conference, 21−24 April 2009)
Negative environmental impact of numerous radioactive wastes of uranium mining and processing industry in Central Asia are manifested in two forms:
- In systematic and long-term pollution of different components of environment, especially of hydrographic network of transboundary rivers with radionuclide and other toxic materials. ;
- In increased risk of occurrence of hazardous natural processes and disasters (earthquakes, landslides, floods and mudflows) in radioactive waste storage areas, which present threat for destruction of storages entailing devastating environmental consequences of the regional scale and transboundary character.
The issues of transboundary transit of radionuclide and other toxic substances in Central Asian countries must take into account that uranium facilities are located in close vicinity with the borders of adjacent states, as well as the presence of factors (vulnerability of contamination sources for water and air flows), which make these problems transboundary.
Thus, for example, on the estimates of experts[1] in case of destruction of uranium tailings NN 3,5,7,8,9,10,18 in Mailuu-Suu the total volume of radioactive materials (tailings) which may be brought to Fergana Valley can reach 1 mln.m3, and aggregate activity of radionuclide spread in water in the valley (Kyrgyzstan) and in the cone of Mayluu-Suu River (Uzbekistan) will make up 10 thousand Curie. In the given case total area of radioactive contamination of agricultural land was estimated to make up 300 km2, and the population living in this areas of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan makes up 100−120 thousand people.
The region has several problems related with actual and potential risks due to the current situation with uranium legacy of the Kyrgyz Republic and other CA countries. Radiologically hazardous facilities located in areas of potential natural disasters and anthropogenic catastrophes may present the risk in a transboundary context. In the case of their destruction they will inevitably have impact on public health, degradation of environment at regional level, what will require huge costs for rehabilitation of affected regions (Picture 7). It should also take into account potential political consequences and social tension in these regions due to the lack of a regulatory framework in the Republic of the Kyrgyz Republic and Tajikistan as the countries having sources of potential transboundary risks. In general risks may be related with radiation safety and consequent impact on public health.
[1] Torgoev I.A., Aleshin Y.G. Environmental transboundary impact of mining industrial complex in central Asia.// Problems of Geomechanics and Geotechnical Development of Mountainous Countries. -Bishkek: Ilim, 2001