Fact Check: The surface area of the sedimentation pond at the Pyongsan uranium facility increased from 1.9 hectares in 2006 to 16.6 hectares by October 2024 due to waste accumulation.

Fact Check: "The surface area of the sedimentation pond at the Pyongsan uranium facility increased from 1.9 hectares in 2006 to 16.6 hectares by October 2024 due to waste accumulation."

What We Know

The Pyongsan uranium facility in North Korea is a crucial part of the country's nuclear weapons program, converting mined uranium ore into yellowcake concentrate. Waste generated from this process has historically been stored in a sedimentation pond. Recent satellite imagery analysis indicates that the surface area of this pond has significantly increased over the years. Specifically, it was reported that the pond covered approximately 1.9 hectares in 2006, expanded to 7.5 hectares by 2018, and reached 16.6 hectares by October 2024 due to waste accumulation (source-1).

As the pond neared capacity, North Korea began discharging wastewater directly into nearby waterways, raising environmental and health concerns (source-1). This situation has been documented through high-resolution satellite imagery, which shows the pond's expansion and the construction of drainage systems for wastewater discharge (source-6).

Analysis

The claim regarding the increase in the sedimentation pond's surface area is supported by multiple sources of satellite imagery and expert analysis. The chronological data showing the pond's growth from 1.9 hectares in 2006 to 16.6 hectares in 2024 is corroborated by satellite imagery analysis conducted by experts (source-1). This evidence is further reinforced by reports from organizations monitoring North Korea's nuclear capabilities, which confirm the ongoing operations and waste management practices at the Pyongsan facility (source-2).

The reliability of these sources is generally high, as they utilize satellite imagery and expert analysis from credible organizations focused on North Korean affairs. However, it is important to note that while the data is compelling, the situation is fluid and subject to change, particularly given North Korea's opaque governance and operational practices.

Conclusion

The claim that the surface area of the sedimentation pond at the Pyongsan uranium facility increased from 1.9 hectares in 2006 to 16.6 hectares by October 2024 due to waste accumulation is True. This conclusion is based on consistent satellite imagery evidence and expert analysis that document the pond's expansion over time and the associated environmental implications.

Sources

1. N. Korea deliberately discharges uranium waste into ...
2. Current Status of the Pyongsan Uranium Concentrate Plant ...
3. Environmental Remediation of Uranium Production Facilities
4. Pyongsan Uranium Concentrate Plant (Nam-chon Chemical ...
5. North Korea's Pyongsan Uranium Mill: Operations Produce ...
6. Satellite imagery shows drainage ditch being built near ...