Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hasan Mahmud has directed authorities to prepare a working paper to make the country’s existing power system safer, smarter, and more modern as Bangladesh prepares to enter the nuclear power era.
The minister issued the directive during a review meeting on Monday morning at the ministry’s conference room with chairmen and managing directors of power transmission and distribution-related agencies and companies.
The meeting discussed the country’s existing power transmission and distribution capacity, weaknesses, smart grids, and the challenges and preparations needed for launching the nuclear power system.
Mahmud called for identifying potential challenges and taking preparations to address them without delay. Emphasising the importance of establishing a National Research Centre, he said nuclear power generation is high-tech, so adequate preparations must be in place before its commencement.
“Synchronising transmission lines and distribution lines is extremely important for this. But nothing was done during the previous Awami League government’s time. Sufficient effective measures were not established to synchronise these. If that is not done, the system could collapse,” the minister warned.
He said PGCB has been instructed to conduct necessary studies and prepare a concept paper, which will be reviewed by foreign consultants with experience in nuclear power. Necessary upgrades will be carried out based on their recommendations.
The minister instructed PGCB’s chief engineer and concerned officials to present a detailed working paper on the smart grid system. He was assured that a work plan and proposal would be submitted very soon.
“Nuclear power is very important for us. But since it is a very high-tech and complex technical system, comprehensive preparation and caution are essential. Maximum attention must be paid to public safety,” Mahmud said.
The minister further said that unnecessary projects in the power sector have already been identified, and those responsible will be investigated and face action in due course.
At the end of the meeting, he called on everyone to work together, inspired by true patriotism, for the development of the power sector.
Power Development Board Chairman Engineer Md Rezaul Karim and PGCB Chief Engineer Md Manjurul Islam briefed the minister on existing capacity, challenges, and development plan progress. Power Secretary Mirana Mahrukh was also present.
