Vienna: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi has announced that the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) is currently operating on its only remaining power line after the loss of its backup line over a week ago. The situation, according to Grossi, highlights the plant’s continued vulnerability and the ongoing risks to nuclear safety amidst the ongoing conflict.

According to Anadolu Agency, the IAEA statement detailed that the 330 kV Ferosplavna-1 backup power line was disconnected from the facility on February 10 due to military activity near the 330 kV switchyard operated by the Zaporizhzhia Thermal Power Plant. Consequently, the nuclear plant is now dependent on the 750 kV Dniprovska off-site power line to maintain all critical nuclear safety functions.

The IAEA has stationed personnel at the plant who are actively seeking detailed information regarding the damage’s nature and extent. They are also attempting to gain access to the site’s switchyard to observe and assess the potential impact firsthand. However, the statement notes that access to this area has been restricted for several years due to security concerns.

The timeframe for necessary repairs remains uncertain. In response, Grossi has reached out to both Russia and Ukraine, proposing a ceasefire window to facilitate assessment and repairs. The IAEA has previously managed to broker four temporary ceasefire agreements, which enabled five separate repairs to power lines connected to the plant.

The tense situation surrounding the ZNPP, which is Europe’s largest nuclear facility and among the world’s top 10, continues to raise concerns about a potential nuclear disaster. Moscow and Kyiv have frequently accused each other of attacks around the plant. IAEA personnel have been present at the site since September 1, 2022, following its capture by Russian forces in March 2022.