IAEA Organized Radiological Survey of Georgia

From 23 May to 16 June 2000, an aerial radiological survey of a large area of Georgia was organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) under the framework of its Technical Co-operation Programme. A total area of about 1200 km2 was surveyed. The survey focused on highly populated areas and on locations were there were abandoned military bases. The population living in the surveyed areas is approximately 1.5 million. The major findings of the survey were:

• One caesium-137 source was located in the city of Poti, western Georgia in the Black Sea area. This source was subsequently recovered.
• Three other areas with slightly elevated radiation levels were identified. These areas will be investigated by the Georgian Authorities.

The survey was carried out with the support of the French Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique (CEA). A sophisticated radiation detection system was provided by CEA.

A final report containing detailed information on the survey will be provided by the IAEA's Director General to the Government of Georgia by the end of September 2000.