The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has recommended that Bangladesh strengthen fire prevention, operational supervision, and equipment preservation at the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) ahead of the commercial launch of its first unit.

The advice followed a Pre-Operational Safety Review Team (Pre-OSART) mission from August 10 to 27, conducted at the request of the Bangladeshi government. The 14-member team, comprising experts from Europe, Asia, and the United States, observed commissioning activities, held discussions with plant staff, and reviewed technical documents.

The IAEA highlighted areas of good practice, including the Rooppur Training Centre’s integration of a state-of-the-art simulator for refuelling machine operations.

It praised the professionalism and commitment to safety of plant staff while advising on improvements to ensure fire safety, operational standards, and equipment preservation during commissioning.

“The transition from commissioning to operations is one of the most important stages for the safe operation of a nuclear power plant,” said Simon Morgan, senior nuclear safety officer at the IAEA.

Md Kabir Hossain, Project Director of RNPP, said that Bangladesh remains committed to the highest safety standards and values IAEA peer reviews as a tool for self-assessment.

Located in Pabna on the Padma River, RNPP is the country’s first nuclear facility, comprising two VVER-1200 reactors with a combined capacity of 2,400 megawatts. Construction of Unit-1 began in November 2017. Unit-1 is expected to start operation by the end of this year, pending resolution of the IAEA’s recommendations.