First batch of nuclear fuel reaches Bangladesh

The first delivery of nuclear fuel reached in Bangladesh by a Russian aircraft on Thursday.

The nuclear fuel will be unloaded and then delivered to the project site under strict security conditions in compliance with global standards. 

The handover ceremony is expected to happen on October 5. 

According to project authorities, the International Atomic Energy Agency's director general is anticipated to attend the ceremony.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Russian President Vladimir Putin are both likely to participate virtually.

A chartered Russian plane arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal at around 1:30 p.m. with nuclear fuel for Unit-1 of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant.

According to insiders, in addition to other crucial security precautions, the fuel will be transported in special vehicles guarded by military vehicles, firefighters, and healthcare professionals.

The Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant is being built next to Ishwardi, Pabna, for $12.65 billion. The two units of the facility have a combined capacity of 2,400 MW. Unit 1 will probably be operational in 2024.

/MHK/