GROSS ALPHA AND BETA ACTIVITY IN WATERS OF KASHKADARYA REGION AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR A TIERED APPROACH TO RADIOLOGICAL MONITORING

Abstract

The results of radiological screening of five drinking-water samples and four surface freshwater samples from Kashkadarya Region in 2025 are examined. Secondary analysis showed mean gross alpha activities of 0.07 and 0.05 Bq/kg, and beta activities of 0.90 and 0.80 Bq/kg, respectively. These values represent 50–70% and 80–90% of the comparison levels listed in the source. The table and chart reflect differences between the analytical channels. The limitations of group means and the grounds for repeat and radionuclide-specific analysis are discussed. A monitoring scheme that considers the water source, measurement quality and potential consumption pathway is proposed. The reported indicators do not characterize all water bodies in the region and do not permit dose calculation without additional data.