CM gives green light to Koodankulam plant

CHENNAI: Pointing out that the reports of the experts’ committees formed by the Central and State governments have clearly established that the Koodankulam Nuclear Power Project is completely safe, Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa on Monday announced that immediate steps would be taken to commission the plant. She appealed to all sections of people to cooperate with the Tamil Nadu government in this regard.  The Chief Minister also announced a Rs 500 crore special package of welfare schemes to improve the socio-economic conditions of the people, particularly the fishermen, living in the villages in and around Koodankulam.Decisions to this effect were taken at the State Cabinet meeting chaired by the Chief Minister, which deliberated in detail on the repor­ts of the two experts’ committees as well as the contentions of those protesting against the nuclear plant.The reports of the experts have clearly established that there is neither the possibility of earthquakes of large magnitude occurring in the Koodankulam area, nor the threat of tsunamis—which were two main safety concerns expressed by protestors against the plant. The committees have also insisted that the plant is safe in all respects—it is equipped with latest generation safety features. Besides, they have said there is no threat to marine species from effluent water discharge from the plant, which, in other words, means the livelihood of fishermen will not be affected.In her announcement, the CM said the Cabinet had decided to take steps to commission the plant, as implementing this project was not compromising the safety and livelihood of the people.The package of welfare measures meant for the Koodankulam people include setting up of facilities to repair mechanised boats of fishermen, cold-storage provisions to enable them to get competitive prices for their catch, housing for the local population and improved roads and infrastructure in the area.