Hillol Ray

CHERNOBYL: A CONTINUING CATASTROPHE

Nuclear accident at Chernobyl represents a worst disaster,
Recorded on the modern history page –
While the effects continue since April 1986,
And refuse to fade in spite of the age!
The disaster still affects the million lives
From the deadly radioactive rays –
In three countries – Belarus, Ukraine,
And the Russian Federation –since the meltdown days!

The explosion blew open the Chernobyl reactor
Within the twinkling of an eye –
And released the radioactive isotopes
Before anyone could even take a deep sigh!
The humanitarian catastrophe is by no means over,
And concerns about cancer are still looming –
While the dispersion into the air, and depositions
Onto the surface are quietly booming!

The situation from spewed radiation is still alarming,
And deserves international assistance –
Through research into environmental problems,
Followed by solutions against soil and air resistance!
The socio-psychological impact on the affected population
Needs to be re-examined now –
And the economic rehabilitation playing the vital role
In aftermath should tell it how!

Despite the strenuous and dedicated efforts,
Much still remains to be done to pave the way –
To remove the negative perceptions,
And build the public confidence that will never sway!
Multifaceted impacts of the Chernobyl disaster
May persist and will warn the mankind –
For several decades, to remind the death toll
From the explosion, and the reason behind!

The scars from the catastrophe still linger
And affect the survivors’ tissues –
While the scientists are restless,
And continue to wrestle with critical issues!
The memories may fade
But tragedy will continue at an alarming rate –
Through the undiagnosed sufferers
Who are solely depending on their fate!

Today the hue and cry from this human tragedy
Echoes around the global sky –
And blurs my vision of nuclear fission,
But keeps my hopes pretty high!
Let’s focus our eyes on Chernobyl now,
And coordinate the efforts to eradicate fear with pain –
Of those hapless sufferers, today and tomorrow,
And help them smile again!!

©Copyright October 24, 2001 by Hillol Ray

Author’s Note: The world’s worst nuclear accident occurred at Chernobyl’s notorious nuclear power station and shook up the industry, followed by the East-West ties. The Soviet-era meltdown at Chernobyl on April 26, 1986 spewed radioactive materials across Europe and killed about 30 people immediately. However, radiation is blamed for over 6000 subsequent deaths and millions in Belarus, Ukraine, and Russia are still facing health problems. A barbed-wire fence encircles an 18-mile “no-entry” zone around the complex. Officials say much of the zone is likely to be relatively safe in 100 years. Currently the UN (United Nations) Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is acting as an expeditious channel for donor contributions towards international cooperation on Chernobyl. But the relief efforts need to be continued. Thus an attempt is being made to draw the attention of global leaders as well as the serious readers to this humanitarian issue through this poem on this United Nations Day (October 24, 2001).