The suspected radioactive leak reported at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport on Sunday was deemed minor by the National Disaster Management Authority, which gave the all-clear after confirming that it posed no threat. The leak – reported from a package of cancer medicines being transported by Air France – was caused by a low-intensity radioactive substance used in nuclear medicine, officials of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board said, according to NDTV.
Officials had cordoned off and evacuated parts of the airport's T3 terminal after the leak was reported. Besides members of the regulatory board and the NDMA, the National Disaster Response Force was also called in, along with seven fire trucks and a Hazmat van.
A team from the regulatory board tested the leaking package. Further tests are being conducted for confirmation. Officials, however, said that the leak would not be dangerous as long as a 3-metre distance is maintained from the package.
Air France later released a statement saying the "shipment of radioactive medical material on Flight AF226 from Paris to Delhi" was carried out "in accordance with international regulations".
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!