How We Fixed the Most Radioactive Place on Earth

Lake Karachi in Russia was once the most radioactive place on Earth due to poor waste management at the Mayak nuclear facility. The lake was used to store radioactive waste, leading to severe contamination. A 1957 explosion at the facility worsened the situation, spreading radioactive materials. Over time, the lake's contamination affected groundwater and air quality. Remediation efforts began in the 1970s, involving cementing the lake bed and filling it with concrete. By 2016, the lake was stabilized, though it remains a restricted area. The incident highlights the importance of safe nuclear waste disposal.

How did the situation at Lake Karachai change from the 1960s to the 2010s?

What is the current status of Lake Karachai in terms of radioactivity?