Bangladesh approves first nuclear reaction at Rooppur Unit 1

Bangladesh has authorized Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant’s first unit to begin its initial controlled nuclear reaction after repairs and testing resolved safety valve problems.

The Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA) issued the approval Oct. 8. Its chairman, Md Mahmudul Hasan, said two further licenses would be required before the unit could supply electricity to the national grid.

Two valves failed during commissioning, prompting a Russian technical team to undertake repairs. Project officials said tests of pressure relief valves and safety mechanisms had now been completed successfully.

Fuel loading began April 28 and ended May 12, followed by testing. Technical faults delayed commissioning by more than two months.

Hasan said officials hoped to begin grid supply by year’s end if all remaining stages succeeded. Approval to begin the reaction does not authorize commercial electricity supply.