Safety concerns of new nuclear power plants

There have been some apprehensions among some groups or section of people regarding safety of Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs). The concerns are adequately addressed by Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL), adopting a multi-pronged approach through an on-going exhaustive public awareness programme to allay the fears and apprehensions of the public.

The Government has entrusted the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) with the responsibility of safety in the Nuclear Power Plants in India. Nuclear safety and security aspects are reviewed by AERB before giving clearance for various stages of the construction, commissioning and operation of NPPs from siting onwards. AERB has specified safety and security requirements for NPPs in its Codes and Guides, which are in line with international standards.

AERB has a rigorous process for reviewing Nuclear Safety and Nuclear Security aspects of nuclear power projects through multi-tier reviews and periodic regulatory inspections, to ensure adherence to the regulatory requirements.

This information was provided by the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Development of North-Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh in a reply to an unstarred question in Rajya Sabha today.