NEW DELHI, JULY 31 : In total, 9 nuclear reactors with a total capacity of 7,300 MW are under construction and 12 more reactors are in the pipeline, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh said on Wednesday.

Replying to an unstarred question in the Lok Sabha, Dr Singh said, “There are no discrepancies in the operational safety of nuclear power plants. The Nuclear power plants are operated by highly trained personnel licensed by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), in line with laid down procedures These procedures are periodically reviewed and upgraded as required.”

“In a bid to ensure the well-being of those residing in proximity to these facilities, extensive epidemiological surveys have been conducted,” he said.

“Reputed local medical colleges carry out health assessments for employees and their families living in nearby townships and villages. Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, a leading cancer research center, analyzes the data. These comprehensive studies have conclusively established that the operation of nuclear power plants poses no adverse effects on the surrounding populations,” the Minister categorically mentioned.

Highlighting the country’s commitment to advancing its nuclear capabilities, Dr Singh said, “There are currently 9 nuclear power reactors with a total capacity of 7,300 MW under construction and additionally, plans are in place for twelve more reactors.”

He further informed the house that a greenfield facility of Nuclear Fuel Complex (NFC) is being set up at Rawatbhata in Kota, Rajasthan consisting of PHWR Fuel Fabrication Facility (PFFF) and Zircaloy Fabrication Facility (ZFF) to produce 500 tons per year of fuel tubes with an outlay of Rs.4256.20 crores. It is in the advanced stages of completion.(UNI)