Lawmaker Criticizes NPCIL Over Radioactive Waste Storage Plans

Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker M. Appavu has sharply criticized the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) for its plans to store radioactive waste generated by the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project (KKNPP) on-site. During a welfare assistance event in Palayamkottai, held on March 16, 2024, Appavu argued that such waste should be stored in isolated areas rather than in densely populated regions.

Appavu emphasized the potential dangers of storing nuclear waste in a location surrounded by villages, stating, “The radioactive nuclear waste being generated in the first two 1,000-MWe reactors of the KKNPP should be disposed of safely.” He highlighted the need for appropriate technology for waste management, which he claims NPCIL has failed to develop or acquire. This admission was made by NPCIL during a Supreme Court hearing concerning the issue.

Concerns Over Environmental Safety

The Speaker warned that if the nuclear waste from the existing reactors and those planned for the future—including an additional four reactors—were to be buried at the KKNPP site, it could make the surrounding region uninhabitable. He pointed out that the construction of a groyne for the KKNPP’s mini-port has already led to coastal erosion, threatening nearby fishing communities and their livelihoods.

Appavu criticized both the Central government and NPCIL for neglecting the impact of their actions on local coastal villages. He stated, “The fishermen and others are facing serious threats to their lives and livelihood.” The concerns raised indicate a broader environmental issue tied to the energy policies in the region.

Local Employment and Political Tensions

In addition to environmental concerns, Appavu addressed the recruitment practices of NPCIL, asserting that the company has not fulfilled its commitment to prioritize local residents and land-losers for employment in ‘C’ and ‘D’ category positions. Since the establishment of KKNPP, he claims that NPCIL has instead transferred personnel from other nuclear plants across India, undermining the agreement made in the late 1990s.

Furthermore, when questioned about allegations made by Union Minister L. Murugan regarding the DMK government’s handling of local disputes, Appavu alleged that there are attempts to incite unrest in Tamil Nadu. He accused certain organizations of deploying “trained troublemakers” to create tensions ahead of upcoming elections, asserting that the government will not allow such actions to escalate.

M. Appavu’s statements underscore significant challenges facing the KKNPP project and the broader implications for local communities in Tamil Nadu. As the situation develops, the focus will remain on how NPCIL addresses both environmental and employment concerns raised by local leaders.