Tab on radioactivity in seas off Sri Lanka

Disna MUDALIGE

A special programme to monitor radioactive substances in the seas off Sri Lanka has been commenced by the Atomic Energy Authority with the aid of International Atomic Energy Authority (IAEA) and local stakeholders.

The intention of this programme is to analyze the impact on Sri Lankan seas from the radioactive leakage of the Fukushima nuclear power plant in Japan last year. During this leakage, radioactive contaminated water had mixed with sea water posing a threat to aquatic life. A special seminar to educate local specialists with regard to this special programme was held at the AEA recently.

Representatives from Environmental Conservation organizations, NARA, marine and aquatic life conservation organizations, university professionals and experts participated in this seminar.

The IAEA had proposed this project in the seas off 17 IAEA member states of the Asian Pacific region to monitor radioactive substances in sea water by collecting samples of sea water, sea plants and fish.

The marine samples collected from selected 10 places in Sri Lanka within 1km distance from the shore would be checked for radioactive substances, specially for caesium 137.The programme would be continued for next two years. Australian expert Ronald Szymczakiaer of the IAEA arrived in Sri Lanka last week to provide necessary guidance for this programme. The Navy is also assisting in this venture.

IAEA expert Ronald Szymczakiaer observed that marine pollution has become a severe problem in the recent times affecting tourism industry and human health.

In addition to radioactive substances, urban, domestic, industrial and agricultural waste and disposals from fishing vessels and ships have contributed largely towards marine pollution.