Pabna, Aug 24 (V7N) – Officials overseeing Bangladesh’s most expensive energy project, the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, have stated that the project poses no risk of a Chernobyl-like disaster. Amid rising public concern over reported irregularities in recruitment and technical qualifications, the plant’s management has reassured that all operations are being conducted in full compliance with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards.
The project, constructed with Russian technical support in Ishwardi, Pabna, is currently undergoing the final phases of commissioning. Authorities are waiting for clearance from IAEA inspectors before initiating physical start-up.
Concerns have emerged following reports in the media and social platforms alleging that several key personnel at the plant were appointed without adequate experience. These claims have even led to a formal complaint to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), and reportedly, a letter from Russia’s state atomic energy corporation, Rosatom, questioned the experience of key staff, including acting Chief Superintendent Mushfika Ahmed.
However, project officials assert that Rosatom did not raise concerns about the plant’s safety but only emphasized the need to meet specific experience requirements for certain roles. They argue that every stage of the project has required a license from the IAEA, which would not be possible without meeting competency standards. Officials have urged the public not to be misled by unverified and alarmist claims.
Mushfika Ahmed, who was promoted to acting Chief Superintendent, has defended her qualifications, stating that she holds both BSc and MSc degrees in Physics and had served as a chief physicist at a specialized radiation facility in Dhaka prior to joining Rooppur. She further noted her extensive 13-month training at Rosatom’s Technical Academy and recent completion of an additional seven-week theoretical course.
Mushfika also refuted allegations of nepotism, stating that her recruitment process was overseen by a committee comprising members from the Ministry of Science and Technology, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, and public university professors. She emphasized that physicists are internationally recognized as competent professionals in radioactive waste management under IAEA standards.
Other employees named in the complaints—such as mechanical engineer Rabiul Alam and civil engineer Meraj Al Mamun—have also been accused of being hired without meeting the stated experience requirements. Project authorities responded by noting the extreme difficulty in sourcing experienced nuclear professionals for a first-of-its-kind plant in Bangladesh. They emphasized that extensive training programs in both Russia and Bangladesh have been implemented to bridge any skill gaps.
The IAEA is currently conducting pre-production safety assessments, and authorities remain confident the plant will receive clearance to proceed. Officials have warned against politically motivated or baseless narratives that could undermine public trust in the country’s landmark nuclear initiative.
As Rooppur approaches its official launch, the government and project leaders stress that strict adherence to international safety frameworks and ongoing oversight will ensure the safe and secure operation of the nuclear facility—without the shadow of Chernobyl.
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