Romania Blasts Danube Rocks to Boost Nuclear Plant Cooling Amid Drought

Romania's military is undertaking a complex and risky operation involving controlled explosions in the Danube River to ensure a sufficient water supply for the Cernavodă nuclear power plant. The initiative aims to redirect the river's flow towards the plant, which relies on Danube water for cooling its reactors, amidst critically low levels caused by a severe drought.

The operation, involving over a hundred soldiers, has faced initial setbacks. Early attempts using two kilograms of explosives on the Păroiia rock were unsuccessful due to underestimation of its density. A subsequent, larger detonation of 30 kilograms at a depth of six meters in the Bala channel was planned, with divers examining the area. The objective is to channel water from the Bala channel into the Old Danube channel, which directly feeds the Cernavodă plant.

Further measures include sinking four barges loaded with approximately 500 tons of stone to create a physical obstruction, further guiding water towards the plant. The Romanian water management agency, Apele Române, has acknowledged the operation's complexity and uncertain outcome. The government has allocated seven million lei (about $1.55 million) for the project.

The drought's impact extends beyond Romania, affecting the entire region. Danube flow at the entry point to Romania has dropped significantly below the historical average. This water shortage has already forced Romania to temporarily shut down one reactor at Cernavodă and prompted urgent meetings by the Ministry of Energy to consider mandatory restrictions for industrial consumers. Neighboring Hungary is also facing severe issues, with its Paks nuclear power plant halting operations for the first time in 44 years.