Metsamor NPP may dump its radioactive waste into Araz and Kur Rivers, the corresponding member of ANAS Islam Mustafayev told Trend, AzVision.az reports.

`Metsamor NPP is located in the intersection of 4 countries and situated on 16 km far from Turkey, 60 km from Iran and 120 km from Azerbaijan and Georgia borders. Metsamor NPP poses threat not only to Armenia, but also each of above-mentioned countries. In comparison with other countries, Azerbaijan may suffer more because the Armenian territories completely belong to Kura-Aras basin. Nuclear wastes of the plant are dumping into the Caspian Sea through Kura-Aras rivers. It is very dangerous issue. That is why, the danger should be prevented on time and public movement should be formed against it`, Mustafayev said.

Operation life of Metsamor NPP expired in 2010. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) should study whether to prolong its operation life or not. So, public opinion should be established on halting the operation of Metsamor NPP, he noted.

`New Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs) are being constructed in the countries neighboring Azerbaijan. The reactors that have already stopped their operation are also situated in the very territory. The current condition allows to smuggling the nuclear materials. Smuggling attempts in the Armenian-occupied lands of Azerbaijan is not ruled out. In order to prevent possible dangers, various projects have been realized, special trainings have been organized for the employees of Customs Committee, special equipments have been bought and installed in Azerbaijan during the recent 12-15 years. Azerbaijan has enough potential to control the danger. However, the fact of occupation of 20 percent of Azerbaijani territories leads to various problems. The Armenian-occupied lands of Azerbaijan are being used for other purposes.`

The NPP reactors and their waste in the IAEA member countries are under strict control. However, Azerbaijan will do its best to prevent any negative cases, Mustafayev concluded.

Turkan Mammadli

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