Evaluation of radionuclides in the terrestrial environment of Western Ghats

A study evaluating radionuclides in the Western Ghats reveals elevated activity concentrations of thorium-232 and outdoor terrestrial gamma dose rates compared to global averages. These findings suggest significant radiological risks to local populations from naturally occurring radionuclides, despite other hazard indices remaining within permissible limits. The research employed gamma-ray spectrometry to measure soil samples, estimating annual effective dose equivalents and radiation hazard indices to assess potential harm. This study underscores the need for further monitoring of environmental radioactivity in this ecologically sensitive region.

Manigandan, P. K., & Chandar Shekar, B. (2014). Evaluation of radionuclides in the terrestrial environment of Western Ghats. Journal of Radiation Research and Applied Sciences, 7(3), 310–316. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jrras.2014.04.001