Activists oppose proposed N plant

Highlights

Anti nuclear activists are up in arms against the proposal for setting a nuclear power plant in Nellore district, especially at Kavali coast. They claim that it would further worsen the conditions of people since tens of thermal plants have already been set up in the coast posing threat to environment.

Nellore: Anti-nuclear activists are up in arms against the proposal for setting a nuclear power plant in Nellore district, especially at Kavali coast. They claim that it would further worsen the conditions of people since tens of thermal plants have already been set up in the coast posing threat to environment.

It may be recalled that the rumours were making rounds that the second nuclear power plant in the State would be established in the south coast especially in Nellore district and the first one being set up at Kovvada in Srikakulam district.
It is learnt that Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has reportedly given his nod for allotting land near Kavali coast in the district when the Tata Group showed its interest to set up a 6,000-MW plant that probably spreads over an area of 1,750 acres.
“It is in nascent stage and quite a long way to go since such projects cannot be established overnight. However, studies-both geographical and technical, that ascertain feasibility-have to be completed for finalising a land parcel for the crucial nuclear power plant.
We have not identified any land till now and it would be decided after other aspects are finalised. Now, lands at Kavali coast are being studied for setting up the unit,” said a senior revenue official from the district administration on the condition of anonymity. He also disclosed that the Chief Minister is personally monitoring the project along with other key officials.
According to procedure, after the land is identified, the site selection committee has to commence various surveys and investigations following which it will be referred to the Department of Atomic Energy, Atomic Energy Regulatory Board and the Central government. Then the Centre will take a final decision basing on the investigations.
Sources said the proposed nuclear power plant at Kavali, which will be established by Tata Group is likely to get technical support from Russian government as part of bilateral relations between the two countries. Further, Kovvada in Srikakulam district has already been earmarked for the construction of a 9,654 MW nuclear power plant by GE-Hitachi, and proposed plant will be the second one in AP.
“We are already facing weather vagaries in south coast due to many such hazardous plants including numerous thermal power plants in the district. The proposed Nuclear Plant will further worsen the situation in future, so we strongly oppose this and would be inviting think tank across the State to discuss our future course of action,” said Dr N V Ramanaiah from Jana Vignana Vedika. When contacted, District Collector was unavailable for comment on the issue.
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