The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has announced a new overarching strategic plan for the remediation of the uranium "legacy" left from the Soviet era in Central Asia. The plan envisages the safe cleanup of areas with radioactive and toxic waste in Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan by 2030.
It is reported that these areas have posed environmental and health risks for many years as a result of uranium mining and processing. Since 2017, four of the seven identified priority sites have been cleaned up, with work ongoing at the remaining sites. Remediation work at one of the most complex sites may extend until 2032.
The new overarching strategic plan will be implemented in cooperation with the IAEA, international financial institutions, and the regional countries, and is aimed at ensuring environmental safety.
