A proposed nuclear plant runs into resistance even before takeoff in Madhya Pradesh

In Madhya Pradesh's Rewa district, villagers have halted ground investigations for a proposed nuclear power plant near Rojhauhi village, expressing concerns about the project's potential impacts. Tata Power Company Limited is behind the initiative, which aims to build a 2X220 MW nuclear facility. The proposed drilling involves eight boreholes, with depths ranging from 50 to 100 meters.

The Rewa Collector's office has proposed geological investigations, including assessments of water availability and drainage requirements for the site. The project has faced resistance from villagers, who argue that no land has been allocated to Tata Power and that the administration has proceeded with the project without proper consent.

Social activist Shivanand Dwivedi warned of potential health and environmental risks, including radiation exposure and impact on local water bodies and ecosystems. The district administration maintains that the preliminary testing is not equivalent to construction and that the project will only proceed after the land's suitability is confirmed.