The hills of Jadugoda have been mined for uranium since 1967. Villagers argue that instead of developing lives, the oldest uranium mining region has witnessed extensive health and environmental damage. Photo by Subhrajit Sen.The hills of Jadugoda have been mined for uranium since 1967. Villagers argue that instead of developing lives, the oldest uranium mining region has witnessed extensive health and environmental damage. Photo by Subhrajit Sen.

“Statistical data at regular intervals reveal no significant effect on ground and surface water bodies due to UCIL activities. Similarly, up-take studies on more than thirty species of different groups (plant & animal) show that that there is no significant change in background radiation due to UCIL operation,” UCIL emphasises.

Its website has a section of frequently asked questions to dispel and dismiss reports about environmental hazards and safety of tribal communities living around uranium mines.

An email sent to the UCIL seeking their view on environmental and health hazards due to uranium mines remains unanswered. 


Photos: The rich Hasdeo Arand on the road to become a ravaged Korba?


Banner image: Haradhan Gope helping his father in a paddy field. The 20-year-old suffers from a facial deformity. Photo by Subhrajit Sen.

 

Article published by Mayank Aggarwal
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