No time-frame for recommencement of RAPP-I: Govt.

New Delhi, Aug 17 (UNI) The government today declined to fix any time-frame for the commencement of operation in Rajasthan Atomic Power Station Unit-I, which was shut down in 2004 having outlived its utility, saying a detailed study on its techno-economic status was still under way.

Minister of State in the PMO, Prithviraj Chavan, told the Rajya Sabha that the reactor was designed for an ''economic life'' of 25 years, but it exceeded its longevity by working for 31 years.

''The unit was shut down on October nine, 2004 for a detailed assessment of its health and techno-economic evaluation for its refurbishment,'' he said, adding that continuation of operation of RAPS-I would involve assessment of quantum of refurbishment and safety upgrades.

''It is premature at this stage to fix any time-frame for the commencement of operation in RAPP Unit-I as the detailed evaluation is still under way,'' he said.

At this stage, it would be difficult to say RAPP-I would become operational again, he said, adding that in such an eventuality, it could be used as a training reactor.

He also disagreed with the suggestion that the closing down of RAPP-I was a case of failure.

''India's nuclear energy programme is absolutely safe and there is no danger of any radiation,'' he said, pointing out that of the 14 heavy water reactors in the country, some of these had received top international awards.

Mr Chavan informed that RAPS-2 (200 MWe) and RAPS-3 and 4 are in operation at Rawatbhata. In addition, Rajasthan also has a share of power from Narora Atomic Power Stations in Uttar Pradesh, being in the same northern electricity region.

He said RAPP-5 and 6 (2x220 MWe) were also in advanced stages of construction at Rawatbhata, and these were expected to be completed on schedule in 2007-08. Rajasthan would have a share of 88 MWe (20 per cent of 440 MWe) from these two units, he added.

UNI/SKS VA KP1343