Context: The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has granted permission for the erection of major equipment, including Reactor Pressure Vessels and Steam Generators, for Units 5 and 6 of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project (KKNPP).
About The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB):
What it is?
- The AERB is the national nuclear regulatory body of India. It functions as an independent authority to oversee and enforce safety and regulatory standards for all nuclear and radiation-related activities in the country.
Established In:
- Founded: November 15, 1983.
- Authority: Constituted by the President of India under the Atomic Energy Act, 1962.
Aim: The primary mission of the AERB is to ensure that the use of ionizing radiation and nuclear energy in India does not cause undue risk to the health of the public or the environment.
History:
- Early Safety Committees: In 1969, safety committees were formed during the commissioning of Tarapur (TAPS) and Rajasthan (RAPS) power stations.
- DAE-SRC: In 1972, the Department of Atomic Energy Safety Review Committee (DAE-SRC) was established to advise on safety policies.
- Karkhanawala & Meckoni Committees: Between 1979 and 1981, these committees recommended creating a statutory body to enhance public confidence and ensure independent oversight.
- Formal Creation: Following these recommendations, the AERB was set up in 1983. In 1987, the Meckoni Committee further broadened its functions, integrating the DAE-SRC into the AERB (now known as SARCOP).
Key Functions:
- Standard Setting: Lays down safety standards for nuclear and radiation facilities.
- Licensing & Consent: Issues permissions for various stages of nuclear projects, such as First Pour of Concrete (FPC) and Equipment Erection.
- Safety Reviews: Conducts multi-tier safety assessments of the design and civil construction of nuclear plants.
- Radiological Protection: Enforces provisions for radiological protection in both DAE and non-DAE (industrial and medical) radiation installations.
- Rule Framing: Assists the Government in framing rules and regulations under the Atomic Energy Act and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
- Operational Oversight: Monitors the performance and safety of operating plants through the Safety Review Committee for Operating Plants (SARCOP).
Significance:
- By drawing experts from various governmental and academic institutions, the AERB ensures that safety reviews are technically sound and independent of the agencies developing nuclear power.
- Its stringent protocols ensure that India’s nuclear expansion—such as the VVER design units at Kudankulam—incorporates advanced safety features to prevent accidents.
