Shafaqna India:The information was provided in the Rajya Sabha in response to an unstarred question raised by MP Satnam Singh Sandhu. Replying to the query, Jitendra Singh, the Minister of State in the Prime Minister Office which looks after atomic energy, said no feasibility review was currently underway for setting up a nuclear power plant in Patiala.
However, he noted that a site at Patran in Patiala had been evaluated in the early 2000s and was found suitable for a nuclear power station with a capacity of 4×700 megawatts. Despite this potential, the project did not move forward as the state government at the time had not taken a policy decision in 2007.
The government added that if the Punjab Government proposed either the same site or alternative locations in the future, these would be evaluated by the Standing Site Selection Committee of the Department of Atomic Energy.
Addressing concerns related to nuclear safety, waste management, and environmental impact—especially in light of evolving policies and participation by the private sector—the government said these issues were being taken seriously.
It informed that Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited was conducting structured public awareness programmes across the country to promote credible understanding of nuclear energy. These initiatives target students, teachers, local communities, policymakers, media and the general public.
The government highlighted the role of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board in ensuring safety and building public confidence. The board conducts regular awareness programmes in areas around nuclear facilities and radiation installations.
It also keeps the public informed through quarterly newsletters, annual reports, and regular updates on radiation and nuclear safety via its official platform. Additionally, press releases are issued on important safety-related matters to maintain transparency.
The Centre emphasised that any future consideration of nuclear power projects in Punjab will depend on proposals from the state government. Only after such proposals are received will detailed site evaluations and feasibility assessments be carried out.