The Japanese government on Tuesday (Sept. 3, 2013) pledged 47 billion yen to contain leaks and decontaminate radioactive water from the tsunami-crippled Fukushima nuclear plant, as the government stepped up its intervention in the worst atomic disaster in a quarter century.
The announcement comes just days before the International Olympics Committee decides whether Tokyo – 230 km from the wrecked plant – will host the 2020 Olympics and the government is keen to show the crisis is under control. Madrid and Istanbul are the rival candidates.
I – Word Understanding
contain leaks – to keep leaked (contaminated) water within a certain area
decontaminate radioactive water – to remove radioactive particles from water
II – Have your say
1. Who will pay for the cost?
Japan government will spend Y47 billion since this is a matter of public safety. However, determining who to bill the cost will have to be determined much later.
2. Is Tokyo ready to host the 2020 Olympics?
167 Gov’t to spend Y47 bil on Fukushima water crisis, including ice wall
