The Rs 13,000-crore Kudankulan nuclear power plant might be at risk as a blockade imposed by protesters seeking its closure is making it increasingly difficult for the skeleton staff running the complex to keep systems operational and protect the plant from serious damage. All eyes are on the meeting of an expert group - set up by the government, representatives of local groups and the district administration- slated to be held on November 8, with officials hoping the dialogue will lead to a thaw and more employees will be able to enter the complex.