Assessment of Background Radiation in the Rasht Region of Tajikistan

Abstract

The results of radiation monitoring in the Rasht Valley districts (Lakhsh, Rasht, Tajikabad, Gorniy Nurabad, Novy Nurabad, and Sangvor) of the Republic of Tajikistan are presented. The studies were conducted to assess the gamma radiation dose rate and the content of radionuclides in soils and drinking water sources of the region. Gamma radiation dose rate measurements were performed using the MKS-AT6102 dosimetry systems and the Packeye FHT1377 mobile system. Water samples were analyzed using a UMF-2000 alpha-beta radiometer, and soil samples were analyzed using a CANBERRA (Genie-2000) gamma spectrometer. It was found that the average background radiation level within the range of 0.06–0.12 μSv/h corresponds to natural values and does not exceed the permissible limits established by RSS-24. Elevated concentrations of cesium-137 were recorded at certain points in the Kamarov Gorge, which is related to geomorphic features and atmospheric transport. Research in this area continues, and we plan to expand the study to other mountainous regions of the country.