a proposal of the Punjab government to build a nuclear power plant in Darauli village of Patiala district has led to large-scale resistance from the residents of 25 villages of the district. The villagers have expressed concern about the environmental and health impacts that are likely to follow once the construction of the nuclear power plant commences. The Punjab state electricity board ( pseb ) recently took a group of farmers from the villages to Narola in Uttar Pradesh, where a nuclear power plant is in operation. "It is a horror to be living in the vicinity of a nuclear plant. Each day, the residents of Narola have to get their products, such as vegetables and milk, tested at the plant's laboratory," said Amrik Singh, a resident of Banwala village. "They are also suffering from all kinds of ailments," Singh added. But the state government seems to be unmindful. "I am aware about the protests," said Rajesh Chhabra, Punjab's irrigation and power secretary.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.