Nuclear gallery upgraded at Pushpa Gujral Science City, Kapurthala

Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, July 16

The National Power Council of India Limited has upgraded the nuclear gallery at Pushpa Gujral Science City, Kapurthala, to propagate awareness for enhancing and improving the public perception and understanding of nuclear power in the country.

The gallery was inaugurated by Dr Neelima Jerath, Director-General, Science City, here on Wednesday. Speaking at the occasion, Dr Jerath said nuclear energy was first utilised commercially in the 1950s, since then it has continued to grow, and there are now around 440 nuclear power reactors across the world, providing 10 per cent of the planet’s electricity.

Nuclear power is generated by bombarding uranium with neutrons and is an efficient source of energy with low carbon footprints as opposed to burning fossil fuels. However, it has to be properly managed to ensure safety.

Evidence over the past 60 years shows that it is safe and risk of accidents is low especially due to better technologies and improved safety measures.

The gallery showcases the various aspects of nuclear energy, benefits and hazards of nuclear power and its applications for the betterment of human life and environment. The gallery also focuses on several salient aspects of nuclear power generation through fascinating audio video interactive exhibits.

Dr Rajesh Grover, Director, Science City, said nuclear energy was one of the most cost effective energy sources and was essential to our response to climate change and greenhouse gas emissions. The aim of setting up this gallery is to dispel misconceptions about nuclear energy and present visitors with the facts in an easy and enjoyable way, he added.