The government had planned to establish an external telecommunications network for the Ruppur Nuclear Power Plant to ensure modern telephone and high-speed internet services across the plant’s offsite and other related facilities. The initiative aimed to provide seamless communication between the National Nuclear and Radiological Management Center, the plant, and associated ministries and agencies. The Ministry of Science and Technology proposed extending the project timeline to 2026, with a revised cost of 91.05% of the original estimate. However, during Monday’s ECNEC meeting, chaired by Chief Advisor and ECNEC Chairperson Dr. Muhammad Yunus, the proposal was deferred.
While five other projects were approved, the Ruppur telecommunications project was temporarily suspended. Planning Advisor Dr. Wahid Uddin Mahmud clarified the suspension, stating that the project’s intent to address emergencies raised safety concerns. He emphasized the need to study global practices for similar facilities to ensure robust safety measures.
With a proposed budget of Tk. 378.84 crore, the project includes purchasing telecom equipment, consulting services, and vehicles, alongside road excavation and maintenance costs. Implementation will span Dhaka, Ishwardi, and other northern and southern districts. Despite the suspension, officials reiterated their commitment to ensuring the nuclear plant’s highest safety and operational standards.
