Reflections on the Recent Accident of the Third Nuclear Power Plant

Lung-chu Chen

In the past, the Taipower Company emphasized again and again the supreme safety in design and operation of the nuclear power plants in Taiwan. But, the recent Class 3A emergency of the Third Nuclear power plant in Ping-tong has been a cause for deep concern and alarm. Technologically speaking, how safe is the safety control for Taiwan's existing nuclear power plants? How could Taiwan cope with a nuclear disaster ?
In fact, no nuclear expert in the world would dare to guarantee the absolute safety of nuclear power plants. Advanced countries such as USA, former Soviet Union, Japan, have had nuclear power accidents, and nobody can be sure where and when the next nuclear disaster will occur. The island of Taiwan, with its small area, geological configuration, and high-dense population, is extremely vulnerable. Today and in the foreseeable future, there is still no effective solution to the disposition of nuclear waste. Although Taiwan was spared a disaster this time, the accident appeared to be a timely warning to the government and people of Taiwan: think hard and think again, think about the future generations, before any hasty nuclear power policy is taken.

It would be prudent to take another careful look at the controversy about whether or not to continue the construction of the 4th nuclear power plant. It would be proper and fitting to let the people of Taiwan make informed decision through a plebiscite or referendum. Such a plebiscite should be orderly and responsible, well planned, well informed, and well executed. On a vital and controversial issue such as constructing a nuclear power plant, people should be the ultimate decision-makers.