After much delay due to stiff opposition by anti-nuclear
activists and technical hitches, the Kudankulam nuclear power project finally
gone critical on July 13, 2013. The Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (AERB) has
granted clearance for the first 1000 MW unit for attaining criticality. An AERB
press release said the clearance was given after the plant complied with all
the directives of the Supreme Court regarding safety.
When the atom-splitting reactor of a nuclear power plant
is operating normally, it is said to be in a state of criticality. Once the
unit attains criticality, power production will begin. It will be erratic
initially and will settle down within 15 to 20 days. Tamil Nadu will get its
share of ‘just’ 450 MW from the first unit. If the reactor reaches half its
capacity, the power will be transmitted to the grid. An AERB release said it
has granted clearance for ‘first approach to criticality’ (FAC) of unit one of
the project.
On May 6, the Supreme Court rejected a batch of petitions
questioning the safety measures in place, clearing the last hurdle in
operationalising the plant. The SC, however, directed that stringent safety
conditions be adhered to.
THE
STORY SO FAR
2001:
The construction work starts
Oct, 2011:
Protests stall work. Centre appoints committee to look into the safety aspects
May 2012:
Jayalalithaa govt gives the go-ahead to restart work
Oct 2012:
Fuel loaded in the first unit
May 2013:
SC gives the clearance for the project
July 2013:
AERB gives nod for the unit 1 to attain criticality
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