Japan faces decision over Fukushima contamination

At Japan's wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant workers in protective suits are still removing radioactive material from reactors.

Reuters was given exclusive access to the site, where nine years ago, the plant melted down.

A massive earthquake and tsunami knocked out the plant's power and cooling.

The decommissioning process will likely take decades.

But - there's a choice Japan must make soon.

They must decide what to do with the rows and rows of tanks - that hold radioactive and treated waste water - because they're running out of space.

An expert panel last year said there should be two choices - either let the water evaporate, or dilute it, then dump in the ocean.

Masato Kino is the official in charge of the water.

(SOUNDBITE) (Japanese) DECOMMISSIONING AND CONTAMINATED WATER DIRECTOR AT JAPAN'S MINISTRY OF ECONOMY, TRADE AND INDUSTRY, MASATO KINO, SAYING:

"If we discharge (treated water) into the sea and judge only by scientific safety without more careful consideration, damage to Fukushima's reputation may happen again. As the government, we have to solve the issue of treated water. Otherwise it may cause further trouble for people in the fishing industry and here in Fukushima."

This year Tokyo will host the Olympics.

Some events will be less than 60 kilometers from plants, small parts of which are still highly radioactive.

TEPCO, which operates the site, says it works to relay information to visitors.

Officials say food from Fukushima and fish from waters around it have been tested for contamination and are safe.

But the buildup in water has alarmed neighboring countries.

Athletes from at least one country - South Korea - have said they will bring their own radiation detectors and food.