Environmental activist warns about dangers of nuclear power station in Koppal | Hubballi News

Koppal: Dr Sadananda Heggadalamath, an environmental activist from Kotturu in the Vijayanagar district, presented detailed statistical data, warning against the establishment of nuclear power facilities in areas like Koppal, citing significant risks to the local inhabitants and ecological system.
He communicated his concerns via email to the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) Secretary, highlighting the potential negative consequences of the proposed nuclear facility in Arashinakeri, Koppal.His recommendation favoured arid regions as more suitable locations for such installations.
According to Dr Heggadalamath, selecting Koppal for the nuclear facility presents numerous challenges, including its high population concentration, closeness to urban centres, potential radioactive exposure risks, threats to local ecosystems, vulnerability to security breaches, and possible displacement of residents affecting their economic stability.
His alternative proposal emphasises desert locations, citing advantages such as minimal population exposure risks, reduced environmental impact, enhanced security measures, and possibilities for integration with alternative energy sources like solar and wind installations. He strongly recommends the DAE withdraw the Koppal proposal and consider desert regions instead.
Dr Heggadalamath also highlights the substantial land requirements for transmission infrastructure. He notes that high-voltage lines (765 kV) need 80-100 metres for a single circuit and 100-120 metres for double-circuit systems. Extra-high-voltage lines (1200 kV and above) require 120-150 metres for a single circuit and 150-180 metres for double-circuit configurations.
Heggadalamath asserts that a mere 1,200 acres of land is insufficient for a nuclear power plant. Each generating unit requires a minimum of two transmission lines, and the area that must be kept clear beneath each line is extensive. The govt is unlikely to purchase this land and can only offer compensation between Rs 2 to 4 lakh per acre, which would create a financial burden for the farmers.
He outlined his argument in the email to the DAE Secretary, requesting that Koppal or similar regions be removed from consideration.