UCIL chief rejects link between uranium mining, health ailments in Jharkhand

Image used for representational purposes only | Photo Credit: The Hindu

UCIL chief Kacham Anand Rao has dismissed allegations that radiation from uranium mines and mills in Jharkhand’s Singhbhum region is causing health problems such as skin diseases, cancer and congenital deformities, saying such ailments are largely linked to "backwardness" and local conditions.

Also Read: NHRC notice on leak from uranium mine

The Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) chairman-cum-managing director said the uranium ore mined in the state is of very low grade, with only 200-300 grams of uranium extracted per tonne of ore, and claimed it has little health impact.

"Whatever skin disease or cancer is being attributed to some people is not due to uranium mines. They are due to local conditions and backwardness of the area. At least 10 scientific studies have been conducted by different organisations, which have proved that there is no link between uranium operations and the diseases found in the area," Mr. Rao said during an interaction at Jadugora.

The UCIL operates seven uranium mines in Jharkhand – six underground mines at Bagjata, Jaduguda, Bhatin, Narwapahar, Turamdih and Mohuldih, and an open-pit mine at Banduhurang.

Local groups and social rights activists have for decades criticised uranium mining operations of the UCIL, alleging that radiation from the mines and mills is affecting surrounding areas and causing diseases such as cancer, tuberculosis and congenital deformities.