Rooppur Engages Imams on Nuclear Safety

The authorities of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant are engaging local religious leaders in efforts to improve public understanding of nuclear safety, radiation monitoring and environmental protection. A “Community Leader Roundtable” was held with imams from Pakshi and Sahapur unions in Pabna to discuss the plant's technology, safety arrangements and potential socioeconomic contributions.

The meeting was organised at the Nuclear Information Centre in Ishwardi with support from the Islamic Foundation, Pabna, and the Nuclear Information Centre. Dr Md Zahedul Hasan, Managing Director of Nuclear Power Plant Company Bangladesh Limited (NPCBL), attended as the chief guest. The session was chaired by Dr Md Kabir Hossain, Project Director of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant Construction Project.

The keynote paper was presented by Md Aliuzzaman, Head of the Human Resources Department and Chief Scientific Officer of NPCBL. Also present were NPCBL Manager and Chief Scientific Officer Golam Shahinur Islam, along with officials involved in the project's public communication activities.

Focus on Safety and Radiation Monitoring

The discussions covered the scientific process of nuclear electricity generation, the plant's modern safety systems, radiation control and monitoring, and environmental protection. Participants were also briefed on the project's potential contributions to local and national socioeconomic development, employment and long-term energy security.

Addressing the meeting, Dr Md Zahedul Hasan said the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant would play an important role in meeting Bangladesh's growing electricity demand and ensuring long-term energy security. The two units of the plant are designed to generate a combined 2,400 megawatts of electricity.

He highlighted the importance of modern technology, multiple layers of safety systems and regular monitoring to ensure safe plant operations and environmental protection. The discussion also emphasised the need to provide local communities with accurate information about safety and regulatory measures at different stages of nuclear power generation.

Religious Leaders' Role in Building Public Trust

In his remarks, Project Director Dr Md Kabir Hossain said imams were highly respected and trusted figures in their communities. Their social acceptance and influence could help disseminate accurate, science-based information about the Rooppur plant, address misconceptions and raise public awareness.

He said the active participation of imams in such initiatives could strengthen communication and mutual trust between the project authorities and local communities.

During the open discussion, participating imams raised questions and shared views on nuclear electricity generation, plant safety, potential radiation impacts, environmental protection and the project's role in local welfare. Experts and officials responded to their questions and provided relevant explanations.

The organisers expressed hope that direct engagement with influential religious and community leaders would help promote accurate information about the peaceful and safe use of nuclear energy. They also expect the initiative to contribute to greater awareness, a more informed public outlook and stronger community confidence.

Preparations for Grid Connection

Meanwhile, power start-up activities are under way at Unit 1 of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant. Following approval from the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority (BAERA), electricity-generation tests began on October 30, 2026. During this phase, reactor power is being increased gradually to test the performance of the turbine, generator, control systems and safety equipment. Further testing, grid synchronisation and regulatory approval are required before electricity can be supplied to the national grid. Officials hope trial supply can begin by the end of the year if the remaining tests are completed successfully.

The two units of the Rooppur plant have a combined planned generation capacity of 2,400 megawatts. Once fully operational, the facility could make a significant contribution to Bangladesh's electricity supply and diversify its energy mix. Its safe and reliable operation, however, will require continued technical testing, regular monitoring, regulatory oversight and transparent communication with local communities.

//DBTech/SAR/SMP/MIST//