Proposed nuclear power project by state sparks fresh concerns in Uttara Kannada

Karwar: A renewed sense of concern is spreading across parts of the Uttara Kannada coast, particularly in Bavikeri and nearby villages of Ankola taluk, where residents are already dealing with the impact of ongoing industrial development. Reports of a proposed nuclear power project in the region have now intensified public anxiety.According to sources, preliminary preparations for setting up a nuclear facility have been underway since Jan this year. However, the absence of official communication and transparency from the authorities has raised serious concerns among local communities. Many residents say they became aware of these developments only recently. The Kaiga nuclear power station in Karwar is just 40km away from the proposed new nuclear power station at Bavikeri. The proposed Keni port, the INS Kadamba naval base, the Vajrakosh armoury belonging to the Indian Navy and the proposed airport at Alageri in Ankola are within a 10-15km radius of the new nuclear power plant.At present, nuclear energy-related decisions in India have largely remained under the purview of the central govt. But recent policy changes have opened the door for private companies and even state govts to participate in nuclear power generation. Taking advantage of this shift, the Karnataka govt is said to be exploring the possibility of independently establishing a nuclear power plant in the state, a senior official said. What makes this proposal significant is that the project is reportedly being planned without direct involvement from the central govt. If implemented, it would be one of the few such state-led initiatives in the country. As part of the initial phase, the govt has identified five probable locations across Karnataka for feasibility studies and geological surveys, including Bhavikeri in Uttara Kannada district, Basur in Shivamogga district, Halkavati in Raichur district, and Bannikumati in Koppal district and Manur in Vijayapura district.Officials already conducted a meeting with district authorities earlier this year to discuss the project. However, details of these discussions have not been made public. Preliminary estimates indicate that the land requirement for the project would vary depending on capacity. It could be around 1,200 acres for a 2,000MW plant, 1,600 acres for a 4,000MW plant, and 2,000acres for a 6,000MW plant. About 100 to 150 acres may be needed for residential and support infrastructure, said sources.
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