Algeria launches the first operation to cleanse the sites of nuclear explosions in In Acre – Algerian Al-Hiwar newspaper

Algeria, coinciding with the commemoration of the 66th anniversary of the French nuclear explosions, raised the level of the challenge by launching the first partial cleansing operation of the bomb sites in the In Acre region in the state of Tamanrasset, relying on national competencies and local equipment, according to what was revealed in a documentary by the Directorate of Media and Communication of the Ministry of National Defense entitled “Algerians in the Heart of the Challenges.”

The documentary explained that the operation began at the Taourirt-Tan-Afla site, where the underground “Beryl” explosion was detonated, which was classified as one of the most dangerous nuclear explosions, as its power reached 150,000 tons of TNT, which led to cracks in the experimental chamber, gas leakage, and the formation of a radioactive cloud, in addition to the flow of lava that caused widespread pollution and environmental destruction, the effects of which are still present, especially with the continued presence of radioactive elements such as “cesium-137.” And “plutonium.”

The launch of the operation came after decades of studies, planning, and coordination of efforts between several ministerial sectors, under the supervision of Algerian experts and specialists, where a partial disinfection camp was established, considered the first of its kind at the site, as a prototype for comprehensive and future rehabilitation of the rest of the affected sites.

The operation is based on harnessing qualified human resources and specialized equipment to collect radioactive waste and store it inside prepared concrete containers, with strict adherence to security and safety procedures, in light of the absence of French maps and archives related to burial sites, which has increased the complexity of the task of identifying contaminated areas in southern Algeria.

The documentary reviewed the historical context of these crimes, which began on February 13, 1960 in the Reggan area, through a series of experiments bearing the names “Blue Jerboa,” “White,” “Red,” and “Green,” before moving to subterranean bombings, including the “Beryl” incident, which proved – according to specialists – the failure of control in some experiments despite official claims at the time.

Researchers and experts in history and nuclear physics, including university professors, confirmed that what happened in southern Algeria represents a full-fledged crime that targeted humans and the environment alike, noting that the effects of radiation are still present after decades.

Through this step, Algeria confirms its determination to confront the heavy nuclear legacy left by colonialism, through a national scientific approach aimed at cleansing the land and protecting the population, in an effort that reflects the ability of Algerian competencies to transform historical challenges into field workshops to restore the environment and preserve national sovereignty.