Bangladesh is set to mark a significant milestone as fuel loading commences at the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant’s first unit on April 7. This step will activate the reactor for electricity generation, as highlighted in a report by The Daily Star newspaper based in Dhaka.
Fuel loading is a critical phase in a nuclear reactor’s lifecycle, emphasizing safety, radiation control, and technological reliability. Dr. Kamrul Hassan Mamun, a Physics Professor at Dhaka University, underscores the importance of stringent safety standards due to the potential severe consequences of any lapses.
Dr. Mamun references past nuclear disasters like Chernobyl and Fukushima to stress the necessity of maintaining top-notch safety measures in nuclear power projects. He also raises concerns about Bangladesh heavily relying on foreign loans, companies, and technical expertise for such a sensitive endeavor.
The professor emphasizes the need for countries to develop their own nuclear expertise before embarking on nuclear projects. He warns that without a strong domestic scientific and technological foundation, a nation risks depending on imported technology rather than fostering a self-sufficient national capability.
