Assessment of radioactivity in soil from the vicinity of Srikail gas field, Bangladesh: implications for public health and environment

This pioneering study investigates the levels of naturally occurring radioactive materials in soil collected from the vicinity of Srikail gas field, Bangladesh, utilizing a high purity germanium (HPGe) detector. Forty soil samples were systematically collected from concentric circles around the gas well, with approximate radii of 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 m. The activity concentrations of ²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, and ⁴⁰K ranged from 12-27, 24-45, and 255-480 Bq/kg, respectively, with most values aligning with global averages of 35, 35 and 400 Bq/kg respectively. Notably, two samples showed the presence of artificial radioactivity (¹³⁷Cs). All the radiological hazard indices are well within the recommended safety limits. However, this study emphasizes the need to establish baseline data for the soon-to-be-commissioned Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant and its nearby areas. It also highlights the importance of regular monitoring to detect any future changes in radioactivity levels that might come from natural processes or human activities.