On the other hand there is the overwhelming desire for secrecy and the perceived need to build up nuclear arsenals come what may. In this mindset, it is no wonder that the health and security of one's own citizens is sacrificed at the alter of geo-political considerations. Except for at very high doses, radiation damage is not immediately apparent. Considerable damage is done to health and the environment before the public becomes aware. Most bombs have four to five kilogrammes of plutonium of which one can safely assume that more than half is left behind.
Plutonium is one of the most toxic substances known.
It has a half life of 24,000 years and would thus remain in the environment of Pokhran essentially for ever. Sometimes underground tests result in quick, massive releases into the atmosphere called ventings. Releases which take place slowly over a period of months or years are called seeps. The Des Moines test of 1962 vented 11 million curies while the Bainberry test of 1970 vented 6.7 million curies into the atmosphere. Mercifully operation Shakti hasn't resulted in ventings.