Govt set to review security at N-plants

Reassuring India of the safety of nuclear power reactors in the country, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Monday informed Parliament that of the 20 nuclear power reactors currently operating in India, 18 are indigenous pressurised heavy water reactors and only two reactors at Tarapur, TAPS-I and II, are boiling water reactors — the type used in Japan. Nevertheless, he said the structural safety and technical parameters of all Indian nuclear power plants will be reviewed in light of the tsunami-triggered nuclear accident staring Japan in the face.

In a statement in Parliament, he said he had ordered the review to reassure India that nuclear power plants here can withstand the impact of large natural disasters such as tsunamis and earthquakes.

The Prime Minister said Indian nuclear plants have, in the past, met the safety standards during major natural calamities like the earthquake in Gujarat in January 26, 2002 and the tsunami in December, 2004. He informed both Houses of Parliament that India was in constant touch with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the Japanese Atomic Industrial Forum and the World Association of Nuclear Operators.

The Prime Minister said there are 25,000 Indians in Japan, most of whom do not live in the areas affected by the tsunami and so far, there are no reports of any casualties. About 70 Indians are in shelters put up by Japanese authorities in the tsunami-affected areas.

Expressing his condolences to Japan on the behalf of the government, Parliament and the people of India, he said New Delhi would spare no effort in assisting the tragedy-stricken country and said, “Our resources are at the disposal,” of that nation. He said 25,000 blankets have already been airlifted as an immediate measure and search and rescue teams, along with relief material, were ready to be sent.

The Indian Navy is also on standby to send its ships to Japan as part of relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction.”We can never forget that India has been the largest recipient of Japan’s Overseas Development Assistance. We have the best of relations with Japan,” the Prime Minister said.