The Indian military said Tuesday the first port call to India by a nuclear-powered US aircraft carrier posed no risk to the city of Chennai where it will dock in July. Some unions have said the visit by the USS Nimitz poses a possible radiation danger in case of an accident, but the military said procedures were in place to receive one of the world's largest carriers.
"Port calls by naval ships of friendly countries are a routine activity to promote goodwill amongst the navies," a defence ministry spokesman said in New Delhi.
But there were still objections despite the ministry's statement. "Even if there is a small radiation from the US super carrier, the entire Chennai city and its surrounding areas will be affected," said union chief Narendra Rao.
India and the US have stepped up joint military exercises as part of improved ties, which were boosted in 2005 when they set aside Cold War mistrust and signed an historic civilian nuclear energy transfer deal.
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