Uranium Ore Transport Across Navajo Nation Sparks Uproar After AP Revelation

PHOENIX (AP) — In a surprising correction, The Associated Press revealed that its story about the transportation of uranium ore across the Navajo Nation, published on July 30, 2024, contained a critical inaccuracy. The original article stated that a 2012 tribal law banned the transport of uranium ore, but further research has shown that this claim was incorrect.

The revelation sparked widespread reaction among Navajo Nation officials and residents, many of whom have long been concerned about the dangers posed by uranium transport. 'We have always been worried about the risks of uranium ore passing through our land,' said Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren. 'The fact that AP made such a fundamental error is extremely alarming.'

Uranium mining has been a contentious issue in the region for decades. In the past, Navajo Nation residents and other communities in the Four Corners region were exposed to the dangers of uranium mining and milling, which led to serious health problems. Due to these historical events, efforts to limit or prohibit uranium-related activities have become a top priority for the tribe.

Although the reported ban on uranium ore transport was discovered to be incorrect, concerns over its transportation are very real. Environmental groups point out that transporting uranium poses risks to local communities due to potential accidents and radioactive leakage. These groups, along with the Navajo Nation, plan to press the federal government for stricter regulations on uranium transport.

The Associated Press has apologized for the error in their reporting and has made the necessary corrections to their original article. 'The AP is committed to providing accurate and fair reporting,' an AP spokesperson said. 'We regret the mistake in our story and will strive to be more thorough in the future.'

Negotiations between the Navajo Nation and federal authorities are currently underway to create tougher regulations and enforcement mechanisms to limit or ban the transport of uranium ore. 'We will not rest until we get the protections our people need and deserve,' President Nygren stated.