Sarcophagus construction for arsenic waste in Tsana, Lentekhi municipality enters second stage

In the village of Tsana in the Lentekhi municipality, construction of the protective sarcophagus for arsenic-containing waste has moved on to its second phase. The initiative is supervised by the Nuclear and Radiation Safety Agency of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, following extensive environmental studies and coordination with local stakeholders.

The facility aims to safely contain approximately 50,500 cubic metres of legacy arsenic waste from a former mining and processing operation dismantled in the 1990s. As part of the stage-two works, a reinforced concrete structure is being erected, along with a protective dam of 224 metres and a 350-metre reinforced drainage channel to guard against flood and wash-out risks.

A site visit was carried out by the Head of the Nuclear and Radiation Safety Agency, Nino Utiashvili, together with local government representatives and Lentekhi municipal officials. They inspected the construction progress and discussed next-step plans for ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and the wider region.

Minister Davit Songulashvili emphasised that the project is a key part of the state’s broader strategy to remediate hazardous legacy sites, protect the environment and support regional development. He added that the second stage’s successful completion will pave the way for full closure of the contaminated area and improved safety standards for residents.

Work continues under a tight schedule with the aim of meeting all regulatory requirements and international best-practice standards for hazardous waste containment.