On the afternoon of the 8th, the search operation for missing persons was halted as an alarm suddenly sounded at the site of the boiler tower collapse accident at the Korea East-West Power Ulsan Thermal Power Plant. The incident occurred during a critical phase of the rescue efforts, prompting immediate action from the on-site teams.
According to fire authorities and other officials, around 5:25 p.m. on that day, a collapse risk detection sensor activated at the site, triggering an evacuation announcement that was broadcast through the site’s speakers. This sudden alert forced the search team, which included 119 rescue personnel and their equipment, to immediately withdraw to a safe area.
The alarm was traced back to Unit 5, which had already collapsed in the initial accident. The sensor, designed to detect tilt, is now under investigation by the installation company to determine the exact cause of the activation. This step is crucial to ensure the safety of both the rescue teams and any potential survivors still buried beneath the debris.
Although there are several theories about what triggered the sensor, including the possibility that it was caused by rain that fell that day or the impact of the ongoing rescue operation, the specific cause has yet to be confirmed. Authorities are working diligently to gather all necessary information before resuming the rescue and search operations.
The focus of the investigation is to determine whether the incident was simply a malfunction or if it indicated an actual risk. This assessment is essential to prepare for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during the continuation of the search efforts.
Meanwhile, the search operation to find missing persons buried in the boiler tower collapse accident at the Ulsan Thermal Power Plant, which occurred on the 6th, continued on the 8th for the third day. The incident resulted in nine individuals being buried under the debris, with two rescued alive and three confirmed dead so far. The remaining two are presumed dead, while two others are still missing.
- The situation remains tense as families of the missing wait for news.
- Rescue teams continue to work tirelessly, despite the challenges posed by the unstable environment.
- The community has rallied together to support the victims and their families.
