New Delhi, Dec 2 (IANS) The government has sought assistance from the Operational Safety Review Team of the International Atomic Energy Agency for the safety reviews and audit of its nuclear power plants, said an official release Friday.
According top priority to the issue, the Cabinet Committee on Security Thursday reviewed the safety of nuclear power plants in India.
The CCS was briefed on the steps taken since the radiation leak incident at Fukushima plant in Japan in March 2011 due to an earthquake and tsunami.
The CCS noted a technical review of all safety systems of nuclear power plants, with a focus on their ability to withstand the impact of large natural disasters such as tsunamis and earthquakes, has been carried out.
Recommendations to enhance safety, wherever required, are being implemented, said an official release.
The CCS was further told that mechanisms for responding to nuclear and radiological emergencies are being strengthened in coordination with the National Disaster Management Authority, including the setting up of additional Emergency Response Centres.
Officials said the NDMA has drawn up various action plans for emergency preparedness.
The CCS was also told that action taken on previous safety reviews have been put in the public domain and the Nuclear Safety Regulatory Authority Bill, 2011, which aims to create an independent and autonomous nuclear regulatory body, has been introduced in parliament.
The CCS also reviewed the action taken by government following the radiation incident in Mayapuri in West Delhi in April 2010, including raising awareness, registering all radioactive sources, radiation checks on incoming metal scrap, installing radiation detection equipment at the border, enhanced inspections, and strengthening regulatory capabilities.
