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BARC's Mega Move: 3,000-Acre Nuclear R&D Campus Planned for Andhra Pradesh

BARC is planning a huge new research campus in Andhra Pradesh. The facility will cover about 3,000 acres to boost nuclear science and reactor tech. This move is part of India's bigger focus on developing its own advanced nuclear energy solutions. The project has already gotten a preliminary green light for using some forest land.

Key Points: BARC Plans 3,000-Acre R&D Campus in Andhra Pradesh for Nuclear Tech

  • The proposed campus will span nearly 3,000 acres in Anakapalli district, Andhra Pradesh
  • BARC seeks forest land diversion, with initial approval recommended by an expert committee
  • The campus will bolster India's push for indigenous small modular reactor development
  • It aligns with growing international nuclear cooperation, including talks with Russia's Rosatom
2 min read

BARC plans 3,000-acre R&D campus in Andhra Pradesh

Bhabha Atomic Research Centre plans a massive new R&D campus in Andhra Pradesh to advance India's nuclear reactor development and clean energy goals.

"The new facility is expected to support BARC’s expanding role in nuclear research, reactor development and advanced energy technologies. - Article"

New Delhi, Dec 14

The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) is planning to set up a large new research and development campus in Andhra Pradesh as part of India’s broader push to strengthen nuclear science and advanced reactor technology.

The proposed campus will come up in Anakapalli district and will spread across nearly 3,000 acres.

According to documents reviewed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, BARC has approached the Andhra Pradesh government seeking approval to divert 148.15 hectares of forest land for the project.

An Expert Appraisal Committee under the ministry has examined the proposal earlier this month and has recommended it for “in-principle” approval, which would allow the diversion of the first parcel of land for the new campus.

Officials said that more than 1,200 hectares, or around 3,000 acres, of revenue land has already been acquired for the BARC project.

The forest land proposed for diversion is located next to the acquired area and lies between the project site and the coastline, making it crucial for completing the layout of the planned campus.

The new facility is expected to support BARC’s expanding role in nuclear research, reactor development and advanced energy technologies.

The development comes at a time when the government is placing strong emphasis on indigenous nuclear innovation and clean energy solutions.

Earlier this month, the government informed Parliament that BARC has already begun design and development work on small modular reactors, including the 200 MWe Bharat Small Modular Reactor, a 55 MWe small modular reactor, and a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor aimed at hydrogen generation.

These reactors are proposed to be built initially at Department of Atomic Energy sites for technology demonstration, with construction likely to begin after project approvals.

The Centre has also highlighted growing international cooperation in the nuclear sector.

Discussions have taken place between India’s Department of Atomic Energy and Russia’s Rosatom to explore collaboration on both large and small nuclear power projects, including the possibility of constructing Russian-designed small modular reactors in India and localising equipment manufacturing.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While I support scientific progress, diverting 148 hectares of forest land is concerning. Anakapalli is ecologically sensitive. BARC must ensure minimal environmental impact and have a robust plan for afforestation. Development shouldn't come at the cost of our natural heritage.
A
Aman W
Small Modular Reactors are the future! Glad to see BARC leading the charge with the 200 MWe Bharat SMR. This is exactly the kind of indigenous innovation we need to meet our clean energy goals and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Make in India in action! 💪
S
Sarah B
The scale of this is impressive. Hope the collaboration with Rosatom brings in the best technology while ensuring we build our own expertise. Localising manufacturing is key for long-term success and cost reduction.
V
Vikram M
As someone from the region, I hope the project brings real infrastructure development - better roads, schools, and hospitals for the surrounding villages. Often these big projects forget the local community. Let's hope this time is different.
K
Karthik V
Hydrogen generation from a high-temperature reactor? Now that's forward-thinking. If we can crack green hydrogen at scale with nuclear, it could revolutionize our industry and transport. Big step for Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

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