The recent arrest of two individuals for possession and illegal sale of uranium, a violation of the Atomic Energy Act 1962, has put the spotlight on the significance of uranium in various spheres. The confiscated compound was confirmed as natural uranium by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).
About Uranium
Uranium, with its silvery-white glow, is a naturally occurring radioactive metal found in low concentrations in soil, rock, and water. Exhibiting malleability and ductility, it boasts an impressively high density. In its finely divided state, it can react with cold water while getting coated by uranium oxide when exposed to air, which results in rapid tarnishing. Uranium has the ability to form solid solutions and intermetallic compounds with numerous metals.
Applications of Uranium
Primarily, uranium is used in the civilian sector as fuel for commercial nuclear power plants. This requires enrichment with the uranium-235 isotope to control the chain reaction and release energy in a manageable way.
Historically, uranium played a part in warfare, with the first atomic bomb fueled by uranium. A fraction of a second was all it took for a runaway chain reaction to cause a significant number of uranium atoms to undergo fission, thereby releasing energy in the form of a fireball.
Depleted uranium holds significance in the medical field as well, providing a shield against radiation during radiation therapy. It is also used while transporting radioactive materials. Apart from being used as counterweights in aircraft and industrial machinery, the isotope uranium-238 is deployed for radiometric dating which helps estimate the age of igneous rocks. This element naturally makes its way into phosphate fertilizers due to its presence in the raw material.
Health and Environmental Impact of Uranium
Despite its diverse uses, uranium poses potential threats to both health and the environment. Its depletion can lead to chemical and radiological toxicity, affecting the kidneys and lungs. Environmental concerns linked to uranium mining facilities arise from tailing disposal which increases risks of Radon emission, windblown dust dispersal, and the leaching of contaminants like heavy metals and arsenic into water systems.
Uranium Deposits In India
India has notable uranium deposits in Dharwar rocks. Significant areas include the Singhbhum Copper belt in Jharkhand, Udaipur, Alwar and Jhunjhunu districts of Rajasthan, Durg district of Chhattisgarh, Bhandara district of Maharashtra, Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. Recently, traces of uranium were found between the Seshachalam forest and Sresailam in Southern Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Legal Framework in India Regarding Uranium
In India, uranium, being a major mineral, falls under the jurisdiction of the Union Government according to the provisions of the Mines & Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 (MMDR Act). The management of uranium is with the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) under the Atomic Energy Act, 1962. This legislation provides standards for controlling radioactive substances and plants, and outlines measures to prevent radiation accidents, ensure public safety, and assure cautious disposal of radioactive wastes.
Bhabha Atomic Research Centre
The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, initially named the Atomic Energy Establishment, Trombay (AEET), was established in 1954 by Dr. Homi Jehangir Bhabha. The centre grew out of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, established for nuclear science research in 1945. Renamed as the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre in 1966, it continues to spearhead India’s ambitious nuclear program.