Synopsis
On April 11, MahaGenco and ROSATOM signed an MoU to develop thorium-based nuclear reactors in Maharashtra, ensuring compliance with AERB regulations and supporting the 'Make in Maharashtra' initiative.Key Takeaways
- MahaGenco and ROSATOM have signed a MoU.
- Development of thorium reactors will adhere to AERB safety standards.
- Assembly line for reactors under 'Make in Maharashtra'.
- Joint Working Group established for project oversight.
- Evaluation of E-Transit system for urban transport solutions.
Mumbai, April 11 (NationPress) The Maharashtra State Power Generation Company (MahaGenco), a state-owned entity, has entered into a memorandum of understanding with ROSATOM, the Russian state nuclear energy corporation, to advance the development of thorium-based nuclear reactors in the region. Fuel supply for these reactors will be managed within the state.
Commercialization of these reactors will adhere to the safety regulations set by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).
As part of the 'Make in Maharashtra' initiative, an assembly line for thorium reactors will be established. The MoU was formalized in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and officials from both organizations.
The Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (MITRA) will offer strategic assistance for the collaborative development of Small Modular Reactors utilizing thorium fuel. All developmental efforts will comply with the directives of the Government of India and AERB.
A Joint Working Group will be set up for this initiative, consisting of representatives from MahaGenco, ROSATOM Energy Projects, MITRA, and Global Technology Alliance.
All project implementations will strictly observe the legal and safety standards outlined by the Government of India concerning nuclear energy.
In a related matter, Chief Minister Fadnavis has directed the administration to evaluate the financial feasibility of E-Transit and compile a report. He noted that E-Transit presents a viable option for urban transport.
He met with representatives of HESS-AG to discuss the pilot launch of E-Transit in the Pimpri-Chinchwad metropolitan area.
Emphasizing the project's viability, CM Fadnavis recommended that the company produce its products in India to lower production costs and overall project expenses.
If an efficient urban transport solution is offered at reasonable rates, such initiatives could be rolled out in at least 10 cities across Maharashtra.
He instructed the company to initiate the manufacturing of its E-Transit buses within India and to present a detailed plan for starting the project in the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) area.
CM Fadnavis also proposed that a comprehensive plan should be developed, considering the economic and operational dimensions of current E-buses, Metro, and E-Transit systems collectively.
The company is expected to deliver a practical and sustainable proposal. He mentioned that an alternative mode of transport alongside the Metro is essential for urban areas, and if E-Transit can meet that need, it would be greatly welcomed.
It is anticipated that a High-Capacity Mass Transit Route (HCMT) will be designed to integrate the existing Metro and BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) systems in the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal area.
