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Picture, Radiation Warning symbol, in the public domain.
Dear all,
I think all of us know about uranium and its consequences. The real question is, “Are we really concerned about this issue?” Many countries worry about nuclear energy, not for their scientific development, but out of greed for power.
Uranium mining for peace and development is a contradiction. Many states that fall into the trap of uranium mining are now under great threat. Within them, there exist only poverty, health hazards and a threat to the environment. Till now we have not seen any development in these areas. Where is the promise of progress and development?
India is a nuclear power. This has encourages uranium mining in the country. Due to its position in the global hierarchy, India needs a lot of uranium in order to aspire for the top, but is India aware of the risks it is are going to which it is going to subject its own citizens? The documentary film, "Buddha weeps in Jadugoda", shows Jadugoda, the place where uranium mining takes place under critical conditions. Before mining, the Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) promised the people development and safety in terms of health and the environment. But where are these?
Due to uranium mining, the health of the people has been largely affected by radiation. This radiation causes cancer and many serious illnesses and it also affects the genes (and, of course, the next generation). People have begun to suffer from various deformities and physical and mental disorders. The saddest part is that there is no treatment for these. Even water bodies have been poisoned and polluted due to the flow of uranium waste. There is only misery and poverty in Jadugoda today. Is the government aware of all this? Does it feel pity for these people? Why does the government make false promises?
We all know about the current situation in Meghalaya, India. Law and order were disturbed due to the 209 crore UCIL development, which clearly marks the beginnings of a uranium project in the state. However, our political leaders are not paying attention to the impact that we, the people, will suffer once the mining begins. Naturally they know about the threat posed by uranium, but they were so blinded to it, perhaps because of the money which they will get in benefit from the project.
Part of the 209 crore will flow into the bank accounts of our leaders. This is the main reason why they want to start this project without even consulting the public. They don’t mind putting our lives in danger just for the sake of money. They can settle anywhere in the country later, but what will happen to the poor people living near the uranium mines? Where will they go? Who will take responsibility for them? Who will carry their burdens and difficulties? Who will provide the answers to all these questions?
If we want to stop this nightmare before our state becomes the next Jadugoda, now is the time. As concerned citizens of the state, we should make efforts to uproot all the evil elements of society and to stop irresponsible leaders from playing with the lives of the people. Our lives should not depend on them. Once again, say “No” to Uranium mining in Meghalaya.
Thank you.
J. Kharsyntiew,
Dum Dum, Nongthymmai,
Shillong, Meghalaya,
INDIA.
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jeffrey kharsyntiew
Jeffrey Kharsyntiew
Environmentalist & Social Activist
Dum Dum, Nongthymmai,
Shillong-793014
Meghalaya, India.
Email: flower_virgo16@yahoo.com
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