THE GIST of Editorial for UPSC Exams : 27 August 2019 (Seaborne reactor (Mint))

Seaborne reactor (Mint)

Mains Paper 3: Science and Tech
Prelims level: Chernobyl
Mains level: Seaborne Nuclear reactor

Context

  • Nuclear reactors, as they stand, produce nuclear waste and there is always a likelihood of accidents

About Chernobyl

  • Despite the Chernobyl nuclear meltdown and the recent explosion at a military testing site, Russia seems keen to tempt fate again.
  • It launched the world’s first floating nuclear reactor on a journey across the Arctic to north-eastern Siberia.
  • Russia’s nuclear agency, Rosatom, wants to sell seaborne reactors globally.
  • The very concept has a dangerous ring to it.

Is it a floating nuclear disaster waiting to happen?

  • Nuclear reactors, as they stand, produce nuclear waste and there is always a likelihood of accidents.
  • This one is susceptible to sea storms, too.
  • Since potentially hazardous spent fuel will be stored on board, there is the risk of a nuclear spill that could irradiate the Arctic.
  • It’s an environmental danger of a new kind, one that the world is ill-prepared to deal with.
  • Russia and other Arctic countries may not have the wherewithal for a clean-up in case something untoward happens.

Conclusion

Prelims Questions:

Q.1) Consider the following statements regarding the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC):
1. The members of the commission including the chairman are appointed by the President.
2. The strength of the commission is fixed and mentioned in the constitution.
3. The chairman and members of the Commission hold office for a term of six years or until they attain the age of 65 years.

Which of the above statements are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer: B
Mains Questions:
Q.1) What are the risks associated with seaborne reactors?

UPSC 2019
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