Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA) Chairman granted the operating licence to Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) Chairman for operation of Chashma Nuclear Power Plant Unit-2 (C-2), which is a 325MW nuclear power plant constructed at Chashma in District Mianwali. The licence was granted at a ceremony held at PNRA headquarters, Islamabad here on Saturday.
The important prerequisites that preceded the grant of the operating license included provision of a construction license in March 2006, issuance of fuel load permit in December 2010 and provision of grid connection on March 15, last year. The ceremony was presided over by Dr Ashfaq Ahmad, senior advisor to Planning Commission of Pakistan, who is also former chairman PAEC and a pioneer of nuclear power programme in Pakistan. Jamshed Azim Hashmi, former chairman PNRA and Pervez Butt, former chairman PAEC were also present along with other distinguished guests.
Chashma C-2 Plant has an improved design over its earlier version called C-1, which has been operating safely for the last 10 years with good safety and performance record. Its availability factor is above 95 percent, which is higher than other power plants in Pakistan. Furthermore, the operation of C-1 plant has no adverse effect on the environment.
In the improved C-2 Plant, several design improvements have been made on the basic of national and international operating experience feedback. This plant has better immunity against severe accident situations including disasters such as the recent Fukushima accident.
Through its regulatory review, assessment and inspections regime, PNRA has ensured safety during all phases including sitting, design, construction, installation and operation of the Plant. The Plant site is safe from natural as well as man-made hazards, as the design is robust and is based on proven technology.
Furthermore, the construction, installation and commissioning is conducted as per international standards. It has also been ensured that the operation would not pose any additional radiation risk to environment and general public. PNRA sought the services of international experts during the process including those from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The grant of operating license to C-2 Plant depicts that through its immaculate regulatory process, PNRA is fully satisfied about the safe operation of the Plant.-PR