Industries here have appealed to State and Central governments to take necessary steps for early commissioning of the Kudankulam nuclear power project.

“The governments and the scientific community should allay the fears of the public so that the plant can be commissioned immediately,” said M. Kandhaswami, president, Coimbatore District Small Industries' Association (CODISSIA).

As many as 21 industrial associations here have expressed their support for the project. Their representatives told reporters here on Saturday that the industrialists had pinned their hopes on the project for sustained power supply. Their units went without power for nearly four hours a day and the situation was expected to get worse.

Incorporate more safety measures

“We should ensure that all safety measures are in place. Technology is now available to ensure safety. When scientists such as former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam say the plant is safe, we trust their knowledge and expertise. If at all any more effort is needed to ensure safety, it should be incorporated and the plant commissioned,” said K. Ilango, former president, CODISSIA. The State should extend full support to the Centre for the project, said S. Ravi Kumar, president, Coimbatore Tirupur District Micro and Cottage Entrepreneurs Association.

K. Maniraj, president, Kovai Power Driven Pumps and Spares Manufacturers Association, said Coimbatore had the largest number of industries in the State, especially in the micro, small and medium-scale sector. They required uninterrupted power.

The Tamil Nadu Electricity Consumers' Association stated in a release that in terms of long-range marginal cost advantages, nuclear power was the economically better option for power supply at locations far away from coal reserves.

According to a release from the Southern India Engineering Manufacturers' Association, nuclear energy was an inevitable option to satisfy the energy needs of the country. The association representatives will try to meet the Chief Minister and submit a memorandum. If power shortage increases they will decide on the future course of action demanding early commissioning of the project, Mr. Kandhaswami said.

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