Mysuru: A rare thorium mineral deposit was discovered by Geological Survey of India (GSI) in Gundlupet taluk, Chamarajanagar district. Thorium is a naturally occurring radioactive metal considered a potential alternative nuclear fuel.According to official sources, the GSI identified deposits across 700 acres in Koothanur and surrounding villages. Of this, 20 acres have been marked as the core area, with preparations under way for a mining auction to begin excavation.Last year, the GSI conducted a survey for discovery of rare earth minerals like thorium, gold and other minerals in various parts, including Chamarajanagar district. The GSI discovered this rare earth mineral deposit in the surroundings of Gundlupet town and Managalli, Vijayapura and Koothanur villages.The survey identified the deposits of monazite, a rare earth mineral containing thorium and uranium. This is not the first time the GSI discovered such a rare earth mineral in Gundlupet taluk. It had conducted a similar survey three years ago in Chikkammathayi Hills surroundings, identified several rare earth minerals including thorium. It also identified the core area and for the mining auction.The GSI also carried out a preliminary survey in Ajjipura and Ramapura villages of Hanur taluk, and discovered the gold deposits. GSI planned to take up another exploration to identify the core area of gold deposits. Speaking to TOI, the GSI regional officer Rajesh said that the GSI identified monazite, a reddish-brown rare earth mineral and a major source of thorium and uranium in the outskirts of Gundlupet last year.As the core area is identified for mining auction, soon the Union govt will issue orders to carry out further exploration and mining activities. A detailed report on the exact availability of monazite in the outskirts of Gundlupet, will come to be known during the second phase of excavation, which will be undertaken after the completion of this mining auction process, he stated.Thorium is considered an important fuel for advanced nuclear power generation. Unlike uranium, thorium is eco-friendly, reduces emission. Thorium is exclusively used in aerospace, jet engines, specialised alloys among other high-technology industries.Rajesh said that survey discovered 8.5 lakh tons of thorium deposits in various parts of the country, including coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh, Keralam, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, that fulfils India’s energy security needs, industrial and strategic growth of the country.
