‘RNPP vital to meet electricity demand’
The implementation of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) project will play an important role in order to meet the country’s electricity demand as it is one of the major parts to ensure energy security, Science and Technology Minister Fakir Mahbub Anam has said.
He also said that the RNPP project is crucial to achieve sustainable development goals.
He made this remarks on Sunday while visiting the project site and reviewing the current status of construction work and the progress of different phases of the project.
“The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, as Bangladesh’s first nuclear power facility, will make a landmark contribution to the national power sector.”
Prime Minister’s Adviser Rehan Asif Asad was present on the occasion.
During the visit, the minister and the adviser were shown various important installations of the project.
“Once operational, this advanced technology-based power plant will significantly increase the country’s electricity generation capacity and help ensure sustainable energy management.”
He also said that the government is working to expand the use of modern technology in the country’s power and energy sectors.
He instructed the concerned authorities to complete the work of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant as quickly as possible while maintaining safety and international standards.
Prime Minister’s Adviser Rehan Asif Asad said that various technical challenges are natural in the implementation of large engineering projects.
These challenges must be addressed efficiently while gradually moving forward by minimizing risks.
He further said that coordinated teamwork is extremely important for the successful implementation of the project.
Through collective efforts, it will be possible to overcome risks and achieve the set targets. He also assured that any necessary support will be provided if required.
Secretary of the Ministry of Science and Technology Md. Anwar Hossain said the project is a milestone in Bangladesh’s energy sector.
He expressed hope that electricity from the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant will be connected to the national grid within the stipulated time through the combined efforts of all concerned.
Russian Ambassador to Bangladesh Alexander Grigoryevich Khozin said the Russian Federation is working as an important partner in Bangladesh’s technological advancement.
The dedication and professionalism of Russian experts in constructing the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant are truly commendable.
Through the joint efforts of Bangladeshi engineers and Russian specialists, the project is progressing toward success.
He further said that the first and second units of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant will strengthen the country’s energy security and play an important role in enhancing technological capacity.
He also mentioned that the project will eventually be operated fully under Bangladesh’s ownership.
Following the visit, a discussion meeting was held where the Managing Director of Nuclear Power Plant Company Bangladesh Limited (NPCBL), Dr. Zayedul Hasan, presented detailed information on the final preparations, progress of the project, and overall safety management.
A video presentation highlighting the overall activities of the project was also shown.
Dr. Zayedul Hasan said that despite operating the reactor without nuclear fuel (hot run) for more than a year, no major irregularities were detected during inspections.
All functional safety tests have also been successfully completed, which is very encouraging for Bangladesh’s first nuclear power project. He expressed hope that electricity generation will begin soon after loading nuclear fuel (uranium) into the reactor.
Senior officials of the ministry, Project Director Dr. Kabir Hossain, Ishwardi Upazila Nirbahi Officer Arifur Rahman, Additional Superintendent of Police Pranab Kumar, along with engineers and officials working on the project, were present during the visit.
