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Is Russia catalysing our advancement thru nuclear power?

Published : Tuesday, 28 May, 2024 at 12:00 AM  Count : 278
Rajeev Ahmed
Nuclear science, the enigmatic study of the atoms core, presents a fascinating paradox. It holds the key to unlocking a cleaner, healthier future, yet the specter of its destructive potential lingers.  Just like our ancestors who tamed fire, harnessing nuclear energy could propel civilization forward in a tenfold leap.

At the heart of this potential lies nuclear power. Power plants utilize fission, splitting heavy atoms to release immense energy without greenhouse gas emissions. This clean energy source offers a beacon of hope in the fight against climate change and a path towards energy independence by reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

But the benefits of nuclear science extend far beyond power generation. It delves into the very building blocks of matter, studying the fundamental particles and reactions that govern our world. This knowledge fuels diverse applications that improve our lives. From life-saving tools like medical imaging and cancer treatment to the silent guardian in our homes - the smoke detector, nuclear technology plays a vital role.

Bangladesh, a nation experiencing rapid development, is embracing nuclear science and technology for its immense potential, and Bangladesh must be happy to be cooperating with Russia in its nuclear plant development. This partnership will undoubtedly help Bangladesh meet the growing energy needs of its population and diversify its energy mix. Besides, the possibility of construction of a multi-purpose high-powered research reactor in Bangladesh is being reviewed by both Russia and Bangladesh.A dedicated high-powered research reactor can revolutionize healthcare with nuclear medicine, leading to better diagnoses and treatments.  Agriculture, a cornerstone of the Bangladeshi economy, can benefit tremendously from improved crop varieties developed through radiation mutation breeding techniques. These research reactors can also foster international collaboration and scientific research, tackling national challenges while building capacity and knowledge exchange. Additionally, it can provide the necessary education and training for safe and efficient utilization.

The recent meeting between Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Alexey Likhachev, Director General of ROSATOM, underscores this commitment to nuclear energy. Discussions regarding the upcoming launch of Unit 1 at the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), the first of its kind in Bangladesh, mark a significant milestone.

Here, its important to acknowledge the unique challenges Bangladesh faces.  The soft soil conditions of the Bengal Delta, particularly in the southern regions, make constructing large nuclear power plants like Rooppur a complex feat. This deltaic soil significantly increases the cost of building a stable base for the plant, even in places like Rooppur further north.

Considering this cost comparison, logistics, and the already established facilities for Rooppur NPP Unit 1 and Unit 2, the Bangladeshi government, with the help of Rosatom, has decided to prioritize building Unit 3 and Unit 4 at the Rooppur site itself. This approach makes better economic sense than initially planned construction in the southern part of the country.

Bangladeshs growing energy needs and dwindling domestic resources point towards small nuclear power plants as a potential solution in the future. Small modular reactors (SMRs) offer a cost-effective option with lower upfront costs and the ability to scale up as needed. Their flexible siting allows deployment in diverse locations, including remote areas. Enhanced safety features address concerns in a densely populated nation, while their potential goes beyond immediate energy needs, spurring economic growth.

Furthermore, Bangladeshs unique geography presents an opportunity for floating nuclear power plants (FNPPs). These factory-built and shipyard-assembled plants can be quickly deployed, providing clean energy to remote areas, reducing offshore emissions, and even feeding power into the national grid. Ultimately, these small and floating nuclear plants can contribute to Bangladeshs energy security, economic development, and fight against climate change.

Public perception remains a hurdle, shaped by the shadows of past accidents like Chernobyl and Fukushima. Nuclear waste disposal presents a complex problem, requiring long-term solutions to ensure safety for generations to come. Dhaka and Moscow have already signed an inter-state agreement regarding the return of the spent nuclear fuel of Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant to Russia.

The future of the nuclear industry is brimming with potential. Advanced reactors promise to address safety concerns and waste management challenges. International collaboration fosters peaceful applications while preventing nuclear proliferation. Research in nuclear fusion, the process of fusing lighter atoms for even more energy, holds the possibility of a virtually limitless clean energy source.

However, the path to a nuclear-powered future in Bangladesh won be without its challenges. Public anxieties lingering from past nuclear accidents must be addressed through transparent communication and a commitment to the highest safety standards. Building public trust in nuclear energy is crucial for its long-term success.

With careful planning, responsible implementation, and international collaboration, Bangladesh can harness the power of the atom to illuminate a brighter future for its citizens.  This journey, while not without its complexities, has the potential to propel Bangladesh towards a new era of progress and prosperity.

The writer is Editor of geopolits.com


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