Harnessing Nuclear Science & Technology for Sustainable Progress: Pakistan as A Success Story

Pakistan stands as a global leader in harnessing the immense potential of nuclear science and technology for sustainable socio-economic development. With over five decades of safe and secure nuclear power operations, Pakistan has firmly established itself as a pioneer in the peaceful application of nuclear technology.

Expanding on this foundation, Pakistan leverages its expertise through institutions like the Pakistan Institute of Engineering & Applied Sciences (PIEAS), an IAEA Collaborating Centre that provides advanced education and training in nuclear science and technology to both domestic and international students. In healthcare, the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) operates a network of 19 state-of-the-art cancer hospitals nationwide, providing advanced diagnostic and treatment services to a significant portion of the population. In agriculture, PAEC's research institutes such as Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology (NIAB) and National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering  (NIBGE) have developed numerous new crop varieties that have enhanced food security and contributed to socio-economic development. Furthermore, Pakistan actively collaborates with the IAEA on initiatives such as the ZODIAC project to strengthen its capabilities in animal disease diagnostics and prevent zoonotic diseases. Through these diverse activities, Pakistan demonstrates its unwavering commitment to sharing its expertise and resources with other Member States and contributing to global efforts in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Pakistan's Nuclear Power Sector: A Legacy of Excellence and Safety

Pakistan possess over five decades of experience in the safe and secure operation of Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs) under IAEA safeguards. This remarkable journey underscores our nation's commitment to harnessing nuclear energy for sustainable development while adhering to the highest international standards of safety and security. Currently, Pakistan operates six nuclear power units across two sites. The installed capacity of nuclear power generation in Pakistan is around 3.6 GW(e), contributing a significant 17.4% to country's national energy mix.

This achievement demonstrates Pakistan's growing expertise in nuclear technology and its pivotal role in addressing the country's energy needs. The Chashma Nuclear Power Generating Station (CNPGS), with installed capacity of 1330 MW, located in Punjab province near Mianwali, houses four state-of-the-art units (C-1, C-2, C-3, and C-4). Each unit is based on around 300 MW(e) Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) design, showcasing Pakistan's mastery of this advanced technology. Furthermore, the Chashma-5 project, with a capacity of 1,117 MW(e), is currently under construction, promising to further enhance our nuclear power capabilities.

In the Sindh province, near Karachi, the Karachi Nuclear Power Generating Station (KNPGS), with installed capacity of 2200 MW, stands as a testament to Pakistan's commitment to cutting-edge nuclear technology. KNPGS features two identical plants, KANUPP-2 and KANUPP-3, each based on an advanced 1,100 MW(e) PWR design. These units represent the latest in nuclear power technology, ensuring efficient and reliable energy production. It's worth noting that the KANUPP-1 unit, a 137 MW(e) Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) at KNPGS, is currently undergoing decommissioning after an impressive 50-year operational lifespan.

This process demonstrates Pakistan's expertise not only in operating nuclear facilities but also in managing their entire lifecycle responsibly. Pakistan's nuclear power program exemplifies our nation's dedication to clean energy, technological advancement, and sustainable development. As we continue to expand and refine our nuclear capabilities, we remain committed to the highest standards of safety, security, and international cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear technology.

A detailed report on Pakistan-IAEA Partnership for Strengthening South-South Cooperation, outlinging bialteral cooperation between Pakistan and IAEA in various fields such as health, food & agriculture, water resource management, industry and education may be downloaded from the below link.

→Report on Pakistan-IAEA Collaboration