Bangladesh is preparing to begin operations at the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, the country’s first nuclear facility. Built on the banks of the Padma River about 150 kilometres west of Dhaka, the project is estimated to cost around US$13 billion.
The plant is expected to improve electricity supply as Bangladesh faces regular load-shedding and rising energy demand. However, residents living near the facility remain concerned about nuclear safety.
Rooppur plant and Bangladesh’s power supply
The start of operations would mark a significant step in Bangladesh’s efforts to expand its electricity supply. The project is expected to help ease long-running power shortages, though its impact will depend on how it contributes to meeting the country’s demand.
Safety concerns among nearby residents
Alongside hopes for more reliable electricity, concerns about nuclear safety persist among people living near the plant. The project’s expected contribution to power supply has therefore been accompanied by questions from residents about the facility’s safety.
