- A pan-India study conducted by scientists at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) found that the background radiation levels in certain parts of Kerala are almost three times higher than previously estimated.
- The study found that the levels of background radiation in the Kollam district (where Chavara is situated) were 9,562 nGy/hr, or about three times more.
- The higher radiation levels in Kollam are attributed to monazite sands that are high in thorium.
- Southern India has higher levels of radiation from uranium deposits due to the presence of granite and basaltic volcanic rock.
- Despite the higher levels in Kollam, there have not been any significant findings of increased cancer rates or mortality, suggesting that the radiation levels may not be harmful to human health.
Additional Information
- Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC):
- The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) is considered India's premier nuclear research facility, with its headquarters located in Trombay, Mumbai, Maharashtra.
- The centre was established by Homi Jehangir Bhabha Atomic Energy Establishment in Trombay (AEET) as a multidisciplinary research program essential for India's nuclear program, operating under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).
- BARC plays a crucial role in India's civilian and military nuclear programs, including the design and manufacture of nuclear reactors and the development and production of nuclear fuels.
- This research and development centre focuses on the advancement of nuclear science, nuclear power production, and the use of radioisotopes in industry, health, and agriculture.
- Initial reactors at BARC and its affiliated power generation centres were imported from the west, more specifically, India's first power reactors installed at the Tarapur Atomic Power Station were from the United States. However, over time India has developed its indigenous nuclear technology.