Evaluation of radiological dose rate to non-human biota available AT KAKRAPAR GUJARAT site, INDIA using ERICA tool

Abstract

Evaluation of radiological dose rate to aquatic non-human biota available at Kakrapar Atomic Power Station site, Gujarat, India has been carried out using Environmental Risks from Ionizing Contaminants: Assessment and Management tool. Radiological dose rate to five different varieties, each of fresh water weed and fish, were studied. Radiological dose rate (μGy.h-1) for aquatic weed and fish was found to be in the range of 5.2E-05 to 1.9E-03 and 1.1E-05 to 1.6E-03, respectively. Radiological dose rate for aquatic weed and fresh water fish available at Kakrapar Gujarat site was compared with worldwide reported values. The total dose rate for each organism is well within the screening dose rate criteria of 10 μGy.h-1. The Risk Quotients are calculated and found to be less than unity in all the cases. This indicates that the radiation exposure levels in the area are low and that the non-human biota at Kakrapar Gujarat site, India are not exposed to any statistically significant reactor released radionuclides.