Locals rally in Šumava to oppose planned deep nuclear repository

Over 200 people protested on Saturday near Pačejov in the Klatovy region, in the southwest of Czechia, against a planned deep nuclear waste repository.

In a follow-up discussion, representatives of ten municipalities in the Březový Potok area of Šumava vowed to resist the project until at least 2030, when the government is set to pick a final site from four candidates.

Locals urged the state to stop the process and explore alternatives. The Březový Potok community, with 10,000 residents and thousands of visitors, has opposed the plan for 22 years and demands stronger municipal rights in a decision now made solely by the government.

The CZK 100 billion facility, required by EU rules by 2050, would store thousands of tons of spent nuclear fuel half a kilometre underground.

Last year, the Environment Ministry approved geological surveys at all four sites. In May, Březový Potok filed a lawsuit against the ministry.