Semipalatinsk Test Site
The Semipalatinsk Test Site is a former nuclear testing ground located in Eastern Kazakhstan. The site was in operation from 1949 to 1989, and during that time, the Soviet Union conducted 456 nuclear tests, making it one of the most extensively used nuclear test sites in the world.
The site was chosen by the Soviet government due to its remote location and the lack of inhabitants in the surrounding area. The tests conducted at the site ranged in size from small underground explosions to large atmospheric detonations. Many of the tests were conducted above ground, which resulted in radioactive fallout contaminating the surrounding area.
The impact of the nuclear tests at the Semipalatinsk Test Site was devastating. The effects of radiation exposure resulted in increased rates of cancer and birth defects in the local population. The area around the site became known as the «Polygon.»
Consequences remain
Despite the health risks associated with the tests, the Soviet government continued to conduct them for decades, often without proper safety measures in place. It wasn't until the late 1980s, after years of protests and pressure from international organizations, that the Soviet Union finally shut down the site.
Radioactive materials, including plutonium, were left behind after nuclear tests. This posed a serious security threat. A 17-year operation, costing $150 million, involved pouring special concrete into test holes and sealing horizontal mine test holes. The joint effort of Kazakh, Russian, and American scientists completed the mission in October 2012, securing the plutonium in the mountains' tunnels. Today, the site is surrounded by concrete pillars to prevent people from entering as it still contains residual radiation and radioactive waste. Despite this, approximately 50,000 people still live in the vicinity of the former landfill, and some even use the land for agricultural purposes.
The memory lives on
Monuments and museums have been erected in Semey, Kurchatov, and the village of Kainar to commemorate the Semipalatinsk Test Site as symbols of the atomic era in Kazakhstan. The Kurchatov museum boasts a wealth of unique exhibits and rare photographs that allow visitors to learn about the history of the test site and the origins of atomic weapons. It is a testament to the importance of preserving the memory of this tragic period in history and educating future generations about its lessons.
The world community has also recognized the importance of reducing the nuclear threat. On August 29 (the day when the site was officially closed), the International Day against Nuclear Explosions is observed. Hundreds of people gather at the Semey Memorial Square to honor the memory of the victims of the tragic era, reaffirming their commitment to the global effort to reduce the risk of nuclear weapons.
How to get there?
The Semipalatinsk Test Site is located on the left bank of the Irtysh River, about 130 km (81 mi) west of the town of Semey, on the border of the Abay and Pavlodar regions. The previously closed town of Kurchatov is situated on the territory, which is now marked as «Konechnaya» or «Moldary» on the map.
The most convenient way to travel from Semey to Kurchatov is by train. Visitors can take the train to the Delegen station and then take a taxi for the remaining 2.8 km (1.7 mi). Alternatively, visitors can use taxi services or drive their own private vehicle, with the total distance of the route being 141 km (88 mi).
It is highly recommended to visit Kurchatov and the Semipalatinsk Test Site as part of a guided tour, as the site still poses a risk to human health due to residual radiation and radioactive waste. An experienced guide can provide visitors with important information on how to avoid harmful effects and stay safe while visiting the area.
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Embark on an exploration of the Soviet legacy on Kazakh soil! This tour takes you to the infamous labor camps of the Stalin era, Karlag and Alzhir, the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site, and various other landmarks from the Soviet era.