PAEC Chairman Discussed Pakistan’s Nuclear Technology Prospects at IAEA General Conference
Two nuclear power plants of 340 MW each are under construction at Chashma according to the Chairman of Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), Dr. Ansar Parvez. They will be commissioned by 2016 with assistance from the Chinese. Currently, the PAEC Chairman is in Vienna to attend the 56th session of the General Conference of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
From Pakistan’s side, Dr. Parvez assured that Pakistan believes in a well-regulated international exchange of personnel and technology to raise technical standards and to increase goodwill. There are 18 nuclear medical centres working under PAEC which treat cancer patients free or on highly subsidized cost. Now, Pakistan’s main aim according to the Chairman of PAEC is to utilise nuclear technology in more such socio-economic ventures that will eventually promote better health, agriculture, industry and energy in the country.
It will be satisfying to see Pakistan independent in these areas, because currently Pakistan is seeking assistance in energy sector from most of the states and is also getting positive response. But to an extent it makes the country dependable on foreign resources rather than harnessing its own. The kind of hindrance that load-shedding is to Pakistan’s economic growth is undeniable. PAEC is working toward easing Pakistan’s energy crisis. PAEC will try to install 8,800 MW of nuclear power to generate electricity by 2030.
So far, Pakistan has been successful in applying nuclear radiation in the agriculture sectors that also give enhanced quality of crops. To emphasize Pakistan’s commitment to peaceful civil nuclear technology, PAEC Chairman said during the session that Pakistan is a signatory to many international conventions and treaties on nuclear security. Due to this confidence, IAEA will assist Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA) that will increase nuclear security and provide nuclear security training in centres and advanced protection labs.
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