Bangladesh marked a historic milestone on Tuesday as nuclear fuel loading officially began at the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) in Pabna, opening the door to the country's first-ever nuclear electricity generation and placing it among the world's nuclear-powered nations.
The process, which started around 3:30 pm inside the secured project site, was inaugurated through an automated control switch in the presence of government officials, project engineers and international partners.
With this step, Bangladesh becomes the 33rd country globally to initiate nuclear fuel loading at a power reactor, a key phase before commercial electricity production.
Officials said the fuel loading at the reactor core will take about 40 to 45 days. Following a series of technical tests and inspections, the first unit is expected to supply electricity to the national grid in early August.
Speaking at the ceremony, Science and Technology Minister Fakir Mahbub Anam described the moment as a landmark achievement. He said the project reflects years of planning, technical preparation and international cooperation under a long-term national vision to ensure safe and reliable energy.
He added that nuclear power will play a significant role in strengthening energy security and supporting industrialisation, modernisation and sustainable development. "This is not only about electricity generation, but also about building technological capacity for the future," he said.
Prime Minister's Adviser on Science and Technology Rehan Asif Asad called the development a matter of national pride, saying the project demonstrates Bangladesh's growing technical capability and international collaboration.
Rosatom Director General Alexey Likhachev reaffirmed Russia's support, assuring that the plant has been built using advanced technology and strict international safety standards. He said Russia will continue its cooperation, including in future fuel and waste management.
Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency Rafael Grossi joined the ceremony virtually.
Officials said the first unit is expected to initially generate around 300 megawatts after commissioning, gradually increasing output in phases. Full capacity of 1,200 megawatts may be achieved within 8 to 10 months after startup. The second unit is scheduled to begin fuel loading later this year.
Earlier, the Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority issued the commissioning licence for Unit-1 on April 16, clearing the way for fuel loading.
Managing Director of Nuclear Power Plant Company Bangladesh Ltd. Dr. Zayedul Hasan said 52 Bangladeshi engineers have been licensed to operate the facility alongside trained Russian experts.
The Rooppur project, located on the banks of the Padma River in Ishwardi, has been built with Russian financial and technical assistance at a cost of $12.65 billion. It consists of two VVER-1200 reactors, each with a capacity of 1,200 megawatts.
Once fully operational, the plant is expected to generate 2,400 megawatts of electricity and meet more than 10 percent of Bangladesh's total power demand, marking a major shift in the country's energy landscape.
