The success of an American television show about the Chernobyl nuclear disaster has led to a sharp increase in people seeking to visit the area. The HBO miniseries “Chernobyl” examines the 1986 accident that took place at a nuclear plant in the town of Chernobyl, in the former Soviet republic of Ukraine. Chernobyl was the world’s worst nuclear accident. A reactor at the plant exploded and caught fire, sending huge amounts of radiation into the air. The accident killed 31 people immediately and forced tens of thousands to flee. But Soviet officials decided not to order an evacuation of the surrounding areas until 36 hours after the accident. The final number of those killed by radiation-related illnesses such as cancer is still debated. Today, the plant’s surroundings feel almost post-apocalyptic. Homeless dogs search the area for food. Plant life has taken hold around windowless, empty buildings that are covered with debris. But the poor conditions in Chernobyl have not stopped people from wanting to see the disaster remains for themselves. One Chernobyl tour operator has reported a 40-percent rise in trip requests since the HBO series began in May.
