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Naoto MatsumuraJapanese man stays in contaminated city to save animals
Country:
 Japan |
Content:
- The Radioactive Man: Naoto Matsumura's Story
- A Farmer's Compassion
- Returning to the Danger Zone
- Feeding and Caring for the Animals
- The Radioactive Man
- A Sense of Responsibility
- Hometown Hero
The Radioactive Man: Naoto Matsumura's Story
The Abandoned AnimalsIn the aftermath of the devastating tsunami that triggered the nuclear disaster at Japan's Fukushima Daiichi power plant in 2011, a dire situation unfolded. As people scrambled to evacuate the radiation-stricken region, they left behind countless animals to fend for themselves.
A Farmer's Compassion
Amidst the chaos, one man stepped forward to help those forgotten creatures. Naoto Matsumura, a fifth-generation farmer from the town of Tomioka, could not bear to see the suffering of the animals. He resolved to return to the abandoned town and provide them with the care they desperately needed.
Returning to the Danger Zone
Driving into the desolate streets of Tomioka, Matsumura was met with empty homes, abandoned animals, and a haunting silence. Starving cats and dogs roamed the streets, while chained dogs barked hoarsely from their tethers. It was a heartbreaking sight that left Matsumura determined to stay.
Feeding and Caring for the Animals
Day after day, Matsumura went from house to house, feeding hungry animals, freeing chained dogs, and rounding up livestock. He established herds of cows, pens for pigs, and shelters for cats and dogs. Even a pair of ostriches came under his care.
The Radioactive Man
As the sole inhabitant of Tomioka, Matsumura became known as the "Radioactive Man." He chose to remain despite the radiation risks, confident that any effects would manifest decades later.
A Sense of Responsibility
Matsumura believes that animals are the responsibility of humans, regardless of the circumstances. He cannot bear to see them suffer because of the actions of others.
Hometown Hero
For Matsumura, Tomioka is more than just a place he lives. It is his birthplace, his home, and where he intends to die, whether it be tomorrow or in forty years.
