Uranium mining in AP after getting green nod: Kakodkar

Hyderabad, Sep 8 (UNI) Atomic Energy Commission Chairman Anil Kakodkar said they were serious about starting uranium mining in Nalgonda and Kadapa districts of Andhra Pradesh after getting environmental clearance.

Speaking to media on the sidelines of a symposium on ''Radiation Processing of Foods, Food products and Feeds'' here, Dr Kakodkar said Andhra Pradesh is very important for the Atomic Energy Department and its activities.

''There are also problems related to the public and I am sure they will be solved. Mining will start immediately after they are solved,'' he explained.

On the impact of radiation on those living in the vicinity, Dr Kakodkar said radiation is also there in Hyderabad due to the presence of rocks. However, the levels are low.

''Uranium mining in Jadugada in Rajasthan today is a economic activity,'' he pointed out.

Dr Kakodkar assured that mining would be undertaken after considering all safety aspects.

''There are also many theories of danger on the presence of waste during the mining. Care wil be taken so that it will not effect the public. ''We also have our Nuclear Fuel Complex here and we will be setting up Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) Campus in the South of Visakhatpatnam,'' he added.

UNI ASJ GM SSC DS1635