Question : Identification of Nculear Sites

(a)the long term policy and the criteria for identifying and finalizing sites for setting up of installations for atomic research, nuclear power production, etc. in the country;

(b)whether cluster-approach would be given priority over sporadic distribution of nuclear installations so as to bring down the risk factors due to radiation security, etc. and if so, the details thereof;

(c)whether shifting of those nuclear facilities situated at comparatively closer distance of less than 1000 kms, would be considered in the long term; and

(d)if so, the details thereof, and if not, the reasons therefor?

THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR PERSONNEL, PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS AND PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE (Dr. JITENDRA SINGH):

(a)Sites offered by the State Governments for setting up of nuclear power plants are evaluated by the Standing Site Selection Committee (SSSC), Government of India in accordance with the criteria laid down in the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) code on Site Evaluation of Nuclear Facilities. The sites meeting the criteria are recommended by SSSC for ‘in-principle’ approval of the government.

(b)No, Sir. The nuclear power is safe and has an impeccable safety record of about 450 reactor years of operation in the country. Multiple units are proposed to be setup at some of the sites as they have an inherent advantage of optimization of land requirement, infrastructure, resources and utilization of the full site potential.

(c)&(d) Do not arise in view of (b) above.

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