Chairman Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA) granted the Operating License to Chairman Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), for the operation of Chashma Nuclear Power Plant Unit– 2 (C-2), which is a 325 MWe Nuclear Power Plant constructed at Chashma in District Mianwali. The license was granted at a simple but impressive ceremony held at PNRA headquarters at Islamabad today. 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 15 March last year.
The ceremony was presided over by Dr Ishfaq Ahmad, Senior Advisor to Planning Commission of Pakistan, who is also former Chairman PAEC and a pioneer of nuclear power program in Pakistan. Mr Jamshed Azim Hashmi, former Chairman PNRA and Mr 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 ten years with good safety and performance record. Its availability factor is above 95%, which is higher than any power plant 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 basis of national and international operating experience feedback. This plant has better immunity against severe accident situations including natural disasters such as the recent Fukushima accident. Through its regulatory review, assessment and inspections regime, PNRA has ensured safety during all phases including siting, design, construction, installation and operation of the Plant. The Plant site is safe from natural as well as man-made hazards, 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.
