AERB Clears Restart of Tarapur Unit-2

The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) approved the restart and continued operation of Unit-2 of the Tarapur Atomic Power Station (TAPS) on 7 May 2026. The clearance allows the unit to operate for another 10 years after a major refurbishment and safety upgrade programme by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).

Tarapur Atomic Power Station

Tarapur Atomic Power Station is located near Boisar in Palghar district of Maharashtra. Unit 1 and Unit 2 of TAPS were India’s first boiling water reactors (BWRs), and both began commercial operation in 1969. Tarapur Unit-1 was cleared for restart in December 2025 and is operating at its rated capacity of 160 MWe.

Refurbishment and Safety Upgrades

The refurbishment of Unit-2 included complete replacement of the reactor coolant recirculation piping with advanced corrosion-resistant stainless steel forged piping and fittings. The upgrade package also included commissioning of a Reactor Containment Filtered Venting System and an Alternate Cooling Water System.

AERB Regulatory Process

The AERB board considered the refurbishment work, safety upgrades, inspection findings, and technical assessments at its meeting on 6 May 2026 before permitting the restart. The AERB will maintain regulatory oversight and monitor the safety performance of both Tarapur Units 1 and 2.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board is India’s nuclear safety regulator.
• Tarapur Atomic Power Station is one of India’s earliest nuclear power stations.
• Boiling water reactors use water as both coolant and moderator in the reactor core.
• MWe stands for megawatt electric and measures electrical power output.