Concerns over the potential spread of radiation contamination in Japan have led to the Maritime Authority of Jamaica issuing a warning for operators of all Jamaican flag vessels to maintain a distance of at least 50 miles from the Fukushima nuclear facility.

    With the cooling systems not yet operating, unfavourable weather conditions anticipated and the head of the UN nuclear watchdog saying the situation "remains very serious”, vessels are being urged to avoid all Japanese ports that fall within this 50 mile zone.

    Rear Admiral Peter Brady, Director General of the Maritime Authority of Jamaica says, ”We are recommending this action to protect the welfare of our crews and the integrity of cargo and vessels. Our sympathies are with the Japanese people at this time and we continue to pray for the success of the measures being taken to avert a nuclear crisis.”

    Japan’s Fukushima nuclear complex has been torn apart by four explosions since a massive earthquake and Tsunami devastated northeast Japan on 11 March. It is still emitting radiation, although fears of a total meltdown have now somewhat abated.

(Source:http://www.transportweekly.com)