Editor's Note:
April 26, 2016 marks the 30th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster, the worst nuclear disaster in history. The explosions of the fourth reactor at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Pripyat resulted in the leakage of more than eight tons of highly radioactive materials that heavily damaged the surrounding environment. A WHO report released in 2005 estimated that “up to 4,000 people could eventually die of radiation exposure” from the accident. Global Times compiled a series of photos that compare the site today to the Chernobyl nuclear power plant and Pripyat of 30 years ago.
Above: A containment shelter for the damaged fourth reactor (R) and the New Safe Confinement (NSC) structure (L) at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant, Ukraine, March 23, 2016 Photo: CFP/Gleb Garanich
Below: Workers gather to mark the accomplishment of the first phase of covering the fourth reacter with a concrete sarcophagus at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in November 1986. Photo: ibtimes.com/Reuters/VLADIMIR REPIK
Above: The abandoned Ferris wheel at the Pripyat Amusement Park as it appears today. The park was scheduled to open on May 1, 1986, Reuters reported. Photo: CFP/Gleb Garanich
Below: A woman stands in front of the Ferris wheel before the Chernobyl disaster in 1986. Photo: thevintagenews.com
Above: The cultural center in abandoned Pripyat on March 23, 2016 Photo: CFP/Gleb Garanich
Below: The cultural center before the Chernobyl disaster in 1986 Photo: thevintagenews.com
Above: The city of Pripyat on March 23, 2016 Photo: CFP/Gleb Garanich
Below: Pripyat before the Chernobyl disaster in 1986 Photo: thevintagenews.com
