japan nuclear reactor explosion, page-24

"The most interesting slant on where the stories are heading is that "the reactor was meant to be de-commissioned in February" - it's a subtle but positive inference in my reckoning..."

People don't just run nuclear reactors because they want to.

And the decision to do so is not done alone. It works on the involvement of Goverment and regulatory authorities as well.

Many facilities/utilities are utilised well beyond their initially intended life. They can be upgraded and improved. But I expect the cost of replacing is a bigger issue than keeping things running. (P.S Have a look at some of BP's facilities in Alaska if you want examples of over-used, decrepid and dangerous)

I think the Japanese, who are clearly under extreme stress, are dealing with the situation as well as anyone could be expected.

Should anyone think they know better or can do better ... please step forward and make yourself known?