Bangladesh’s first nuclear plant brings hope for power, worries for neighbours

PABNA, Bangladesh — Bangladesh is set to inaugurate its first nuclear power plant, a project that has been in the works for over a decade and promises to alleviate chronic electricity shortages, though it also raises concerns among neighbors. The 2.4-gigawatt Rooppur nuclear plant, costing $13 billion, represents a significant milestone for the South Asian nation, which has been grappling with a fuel crisis exacerbated by the Middle East conflict.

It is expected to generate over 10% of the country's electricity demand once fully operational, benefiting a population of 170 million people.

The project, built in collaboration with Russia's Rosatom, has breathed new life into the once quiet village of Rooppur. Russian workers, accompanied by new businesses and job opportunities, have transformed the area. Mohammad Nafiz, a 15-year-old local, expressed optimism about the plant's future, stating that he hopes to work at the facility after completing his engineering education.

However, not everyone shares this confidence. Md Yunus Ali, an 80-year-old resident living just 15 minutes from the plant, expressed concern over the loud noises from compressor tests, fearing for the safety of his children and grandchildren.

The Rooppur nuclear power plant, primarily fueled by natural gas, aims to provide Bangladesh with a much-needed boost in its heavily fossil-fuel-dependent energy sector. The project, funded by a Russian loan covering about 90% of its original cost, has faced numerous delays, including those caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and sanctions on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.

Despite these hurdles and allegations of corruption, including against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the plant's managing director, Md Zahedul Hasan, remains optimistic, stating that the plant's first reactor will be switched on by the end of this year, with the second unit operational within a year.