PABNA, June 26 (V7N) – The Rooppur Nuclear Power Project, the largest ongoing project in Bangladesh, has successfully completed crucial integrity and strength tests of the reactor compartment's containment (safety envelope) for its first unit. This significant milestone, announced by the Russian nuclear agency Rosatom on Wednesday (June 25), brings Bangladesh closer to the commissioning of its first nuclear power plant.

The completion of these tests ensures the highest safety standards of the containment, adhering strictly to the design specifications. During the testing, the internal pressure of the containment was increased to its design value using a high-power compressor, confirming the structure's tightness and its ability to withstand internal loads that could occur in abnormal situations. This process is particularly vital as containment serves as the final protective barrier in the event of a hypothetical accident, preventing the release of radioactive materials into the environment.

The containment structure is an exceptionally robust design, constructed with prestressed reinforced concrete and featuring a strong internal steel lining. Its purpose is to completely enclose and protect all radioactive material within the reactor compartment during any emergency, and it is also designed to withstand significant external shocks and disasters.

With these critical tests complete, the first unit of the Rooppur project will now proceed to a series of 'hot media tests.' These tests involve heating the primary coolant circuit to its designed operating temperature and generating steam. This phase will also include final checks on various other safety parameters, such as the active state of steam emission devices. Rosatom has assured the public that any unexpected noises generated during these tests are predetermined and completely safe, emphasizing that safety is their top priority.

The Rooppur Nuclear Power Project, developed with financial and technical assistance from Russia, features two 3+ generation VVER-1200 reactors. Each reactor has a generating capacity of 1,200 MW, contributing a total of 2,400 MW to Bangladesh's national grid. The engineering division of Russia's state corporation Rosatom is serving as the general contractor for the project.

Previous key milestones for Unit 1 include the delivery of the first batch of nuclear fuel in October 2023, which officially designated the site as a nuclear facility. This was followed by the completion of turbine installation and hydraulic tests in March 2025, paving the way for the hot functional tests now underway. Rosatom has set a key target of grid connection for Rooppur Unit 1 within the current year.

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