The Former Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission Mr. M.R. Srinivasan has said that the Koodankulam Nuclear power project belongs to the third generation type and is absolutely safe.

Talking to newsmen in Chennai on Sunday, he said that 25 such reactors are being operational in Russia, China, Hungary, Czech republic, Bulgaria and Brazil. Explaining the safety aspects of the plant, Mr. Srinivasan said that it has double containment and cannot be destroyed even if an aircraft dashes against it. He pointed out that the passive cooling system and the hydrogen combiners can operate even in case of any failure. On supply of electricity, he said that when the nuclear power plant will begin to function, it would supply electricity below Rs 3 per KW.

Adding to the safety aspects, Mr.Srinivasan emphasized that the plant has been set up in an area where there would be zero risk of earthquakes. On the reactors, he reiterated the fact that since it has been situated at 7.65 m above sea level, there is no risk of a tsunami hitting it.

Admitting the gap between the people and the scientists, Mr. Srinivasan said that it was an unfortunate mistake and said that now the authorities have been working in close co ordination with the public. Listing out several instances of State government’s co operation right from Late Chief Minister Kamaraj, MG.Ramachandran in setting up nuclear power plants in the state, he said that the present Chief Minister Ms. Jayalalithaa had welcomed the second unit of Kalpakkam during her tenure in 2001-2006.