Clearing the decks for the commissioning of the much-delayed Kudankulam nuclear power plant, the Madras high court gave its green signal, saying there was no infirmity or illegality in its plan and execution.
A division bench, comprising Justice P Jyothimani and Justice M Duraiswamy, dismissing all the petitions that sought either abandonment of the project or postponement of its commissioning, said: “Interference by the court in policy decisions, which are for the benefit of the public, is against the public interest.” The batch of PILs, filed by individuals as well as organizations, sought public hearings, a fresh and transparent review and postponement of the plant’s commissioning till all the mandatory safety measures are in place.
Following the verdict, the Nuclear Power Corporation of India said it was planning to operationalize the plant in September. However, People’s Movement Against Nuclear Energy, spearheading the agitation against the plant, has decided to approach the Supreme Court.
Appreciating the Rs.500 crore welfare schemes launched by the state government for the locals, the judges said the government should establish a multi-specialty hospital with all facilities, besides schools with CBSE and state board syllabus. The government must also provide adequate infrastructure facilities to enable the local fishermen have mechanized boats and cold storage facilities,they said.
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