The Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA) has authorized the construction of Unit 5 of the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant (C-5), marking a significant milestone in the country’s nuclear energy program.
The license was granted after the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) submitted an application in April 2024, accompanied by a Preliminary Safety Assessment Report (PSAR) and comprehensive documentation covering nuclear safety, radiation protection, emergency preparedness, waste management, and nuclear security. Following rigorous evaluation to meet national and international standards, the PNRA approved the application on December 26, 2024.
C-5 is a third-generation Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) based on the advanced Chinese Hualong (HPR1000) design. It incorporates cutting-edge safety features, including double-shell containment and a reactor-filtered venting system, ensuring robust active and passive safety measures.
With a design lifespan of 60 years, C-5 will join Pakistan’s fleet of nuclear power plants, including the Karachi-based K-2 and K-3 reactors. Upon completion, it will be Pakistan’s largest nuclear power plant, generating 1,200 megawatts of electricity.
