Uranium truck incident in Kakadu shows the dangers of the nuclear industry, again
The Australian Greens
Media Release
The Australian Greens say yesterday's incident involving a uranium-loaded truck in Kakadu National Park once again illustrates the risks inherent in the expansion of the uranium industry.
Greens nuclear affairs spokesperson Senator Scott Ludlam said a truck carrying uranium from Ranger mine to East Arm Wharf for export became bogged on the side of the Arnhem Highway while carrying two shipping
containers filled with drums of uranium.
"The company, Energy Resources of Australia, will no doubt downplay this as an isolated minor incident, but it is a reminder of the risks involved in transporting radioactive materials," said Senator Ludlam.
"The company, Energy Resources of Australia, will no doubt downplay this as an isolated minor incident, but it is a reminder of the risks involved in transporting radioactive materials," said Senator Ludlam.
"In 2009 a truck in the service of the Ranger mine carrying 17,000 litres of sulphuric acid rolled over and spilled the acid, affecting local wilderness areas. If a truck carrying uranium crashes those containers could break apart and release uranium powder into the surrounding area. No approvals should be granted to expand operations in Kakadu."
"Last month we saw the ALP Queensland Premier Anna Bligh call for a review of Labor's policy on nuclear power and the Liberal Premier of WA Colin Barnett saying we should find a site for a new nuclear power station. Nuclear power requires fuel, and mining and transporting uranium carries far too many risks."
"Last month we saw the ALP Queensland Premier Anna Bligh call for a review of Labor's policy on nuclear power and the Liberal Premier of WA Colin Barnett saying we should find a site for a new nuclear power station. Nuclear power requires fuel, and mining and transporting uranium carries far too many risks."
"Uranium mines are at risk of seeping radioactive material into underlying groundwater. In 2009 a government-appointed scientist at a Senate committee hearing confirmed the Ranger uranium mine in Kakadu was leaking 100,000 litres of contaminated water into the ground beneath the park on a daily basis. In total, there have been more than 150 leaks, spills, and license breaches at the mine since it opened in 1981."