No Radiation Fears from Lost Nuclear Device in Himalayas, Says Anil Kakodkar

Overview of the Nanda Devi Espionage Case

Former Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) chairman Anil Kakodkar has addressed concerns regarding a nuclear device lost over 60 years ago. This device, which became lost in an avalanche during a covert operation near Nanda Devi peak, was part of a mission aimed at monitoring Chinese nuclear tests.

Assurance from AEC Chairman

Kakodkar firmly stated that there are "absolutely nil" radiation fears for Uttarakhand and the Ganga River. His comments come amidst reports suggesting that the SNAP-19-C device, which dates back to October 1965, could pose a radiation risk. This nuclear generator was part of a joint operation between India’s Intelligence Bureau and the CIA.

The Integrity of the Nuclear Device

Kakodkar noted the robust and corrosion-free design of the lost device, emphasizing the improbability of any breach occurring. His reassurance indicates that the integrity of the nuclear capsule remains intact, providing no cause for alarm about potential environmental disasters.

Background of the Covert Operation

The mission to deploy nuclear power was driven by the need for energy during the operation, which was a direct response to a nuclear test conducted by China on October 16, 1964, in Xinjiang. The project was initially conceived in Washington D.C. at a cocktail party involving high-profile figures from both the military and mountaineering communities.

Media Exposure and Public Concerns

The story of this espionage mission was first reported by investigative journalist Howard Kohn in Outside magazine in April 1978, titled "The Nanda Devi Caper." The Indian public learned about the operation when former Prime Minister Morarji Desai disclosed it in Parliament on April 17, 1978.

Recent Government and Public Statements

Recently, the Uttarakhand tourism ministry raised concerns about the potential environmental impact of the lost nuclear device, prompting requests for intervention from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address this issue with U.S. officials. Additionally, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey and former RAW official R.K. Yadav have voiced apprehensions regarding possible environmental hazards, with Yadav publishing a book titled Nuclear Bomb In Ganga in 2019.

Conclusion

In light of Anil Kakodkar’s reassurances about the safety of the lost nuclear device, it appears that concerns regarding radiation threats have been alleviated. Nevertheless, public and governmental inquiries continue, underscoring the ongoing interest in the implications of historical espionage operations.