Business · India Bureau
UCIL denies health risks from uranium mining operations in Jharkhand
The Uranium Corporation of India Limited has dismissed concerns linking uranium extraction to health problems in the state, citing the low-grade nature of ore deposits. The company claims minimal uranium content per tonne extracted poses little risk to public health.
LSN India ·
The chairman and managing director of Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) has rejected suggestions that uranium mining operations in Jharkhand are responsible for health ailments reported in mining-affected areas of the state.
The UCIL chief cited the quality of ore deposits in Jharkhand as a key factor in dismissing health-related concerns. According to the company, uranium extracted from the state's mines is of very low grade, with only 200-300 grams of uranium recovered per tonne of ore processed.
The executive argued that the low concentration of uranium in the mined ore translates to minimal health impacts on surrounding communities and workers. The assertion comes amid longstanding concerns from environmental groups and local residents about potential contamination and radiation exposure linked to uranium extraction activities.
Jharkhand has been a significant uranium mining center in India, with UCIL operating major extraction facilities in the state. The company's position on health and safety standards will likely face continued scrutiny from public health advocates and environmental organizations monitoring the sector's practices.