World Chernobyl Remembrance Day 2024

International Chernobyl Remembrance Day is observed every year on 26 April to remember the tragic disaster that took place in the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. This day also raises awareness about the harmful consequences of the disaster and nuclear power in general. The Chernobyl Power plant was located in the former country USSR (modern-day Ukraine) and provided electricity generated by nuclear power. 

On 26 April 1986, an explosion took place at this power point that led to 8.4 million people of the then Ukraine, Russia and Belarus areas getting exposed to radiation. The explosion devastated the area, causing immense damage to crops, plants, and other infrastructure. The government had to relocate the local people to safe places as the nearby area was contaminated with radioactive chemicals. To date, it is unsafe for people to live there. 

During the 30th anniversary of this event (2016), the United Nations declared 26 April as the International Chernobyl Remembrance Day. This day remembers the victims of this harrowing man-made tragedy. This day also raises awareness about the ongoing challenges faced by the affected areas. It also tries to raise awareness of how such an incident can be avoided with proper preparation.