(a) whether the coastal areas of southern India including the sea beaches of Kanya Kumari have
high levels of natural radiation that emanates from minerals found on beaches;
(b) if so, the details thereof including its impact on human health; and
(c) the steps taken by the Government to stop impact on the human health?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE PRIME MINISTER`S OFFICE AND MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL,PUBLIC GRIEVANCES AND PENSIONS (SHRI PRITHVIRAJ CHAVAN)
(a) Yes,Sir.There are patches of high natural background radiation in the coastal areas of
Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
(b) The high levels of natural background radiation in the area are due to deposits of
monazite mineral containing thorium and its daughter products.This is a naturally occurring
phenomenon and people have been staying there for ages with high natural background radiation.
Studies carried out in the high natural background areas of coastal Kerala and Tamil Nadu over the
last 4 decades have not shown any significant impact on human health.
(c) Question does not arise.However, studies are continuing as the area serves as natural
laboratory to study the impact of natural radiation on humans as well as on the environment.