The nuclear power plant disaster which struck Fukushima four years ago left a 12.5 mile exclusion zone. Every individual living in this area was evacuated, and Japanese officials prevent anyone from re-entering this radioactive zone. Many people and specially farmers could not take their animals with them, as a result, many animals were left behind.
However, one man still continuous to care for his animals. They call him the “guardian of Fukushima’s animals”. His real name is Naoto Matsumura, a 55 year old former construction worker from Tomioka, a small town near Fukushima.
Naoto had initially left the exclusion zone but soon realized he had his animals to care after so he returned.
After his returned he realized all his animals were healthy, so that encourage him to stay.
Because of the radiation, officials opposed his return.
He is aware of the radiation risks but he has a greater purpose in mind – caring for his animals.
Currently, Naoto is the only person living in the exclusion zone. He brings all his food and water from the outside the zone.
His animals include cats, dogs, pigs, cattle and even ostriches.
Long term exposure to radiation can cause cancer but he refuses to worry about it.
He has been told that he would start getting sick in 30-40 years, he is 55 so he estimates that by then he’ll probably be dead anyways.
He lets most animals such as cattle roam around the area, he discovered that many had died locked up in their barns.
Many owners left other animals chained, so he freed those as well.
He is supported mainly by donations from strangers, see his facebook page for more information.
He makes the best out of the situation with a little humor on the side.
After four years, he is still going strong.
Naoto, the ‘guardian of Fukushima’s animals’ is truly an exemplary human being!
