Japan marks tsunami anniversary

JAPAN: Anti-nuclear rallies took place across Japan Sunday on the eve of the second anniversary of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami disaster, urging Japan's new government to abandon nuclear power.

Tens of thousands gathered in Hibiya park in central Tokyo, where activists and unionists packed a concert hall to voice their opposition.

Scholars, business people and volunteers gave anti-nuclear talks as musicians performed, before the crowds marched through the government district of Kasumigaseki to Parliament.

They planned to hand petitions to anti-nuclear lawmakers, urging the government to stop its nuclear programmes.

“I think it is adults' responsibility to achieve zero nuclear power, before we die” said one of many banners held by the marchers.

“Sayonara, nuclear power,” another sign said.

Public opposition to nuclear power peaked after a 9.0-magnitude earthquake struck Pacific waters in northeastern Japan on March 11, 2011, and unleashed a massive killer tsunami which battered Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant. The plant was hit by a meltdown and explosions that severely contaminated the vast farming region and became the worst nuclear accident in a generation.

AFP