Radioactivity Measurements in River Sediments and Aquatic Organisms of Kanyakumari District

The present study was focused to assess the Natural radioactivity levels in river sediment samples and the associated organisms (fishes and molluscs) collected from Kanyakumari district. The gross and activity were measured using alpha scintillation counter and low beta counter. The natural radioactivity level is higher in sediment samples collected from Valliyar river near Eraniel and the level was minimum in sediments of Sittar. The radioactivity level of all the river sediments mainly depended upon the contents of silt and clay. The based on the radioactivity data the radiation hazard indices were calculated for fishes and molluscs and found lower than the recommended level of international agencies. Therefore, the data revealed no significant radiological threat to the environment.