Bangladesh's first nuclear power plant at Rooppur is entering its final stretch toward electricity generation. Unit 1 recently passed its crucial 16-megapascal pressure test while the second unit received its first nuclear fuel shipment on Saturday.
However as the mega project nears completion, Nuclear Power Company of Bangladesh Limited (NPCBL) Managing Director Dr. Jahedul Hassan has faced media scrutiny over administrative decisions, costs and safety.
Speaking on Monday, Dr. Hassan dismissed the allegations, stressing that administrative actions were tied to official protocols, board decisions and government guidelines rather than personal whims.
Addressing claims of taking multiple salaries for simultaneous positions, Dr. Hassan clarified that he has served solely as NPCBL’s full-time Managing Director since June 2025 with drawing a single prescribed salary in line with government policy.
He also shot down reports of a major brain drain among specialized nuclear staff. Out of 1,922 recruited personnel, 997 received specialized training with only 27 leaving the firm a turnover rate of just 2.7 percent. He added that the resignation of around 100 entry-level staff, such as attendants, should not be confused with losing specialized nuclear engineers.
On accusations of financial wrongdoing specifically the alleged misappropriation of Tk.7.7 million spent on renting inspector apartments in Russia Dr. Hassan called the claims baseless. He explained that the accommodation was approved by a Ministry-led committee and handled directly by contractor JSC Atomstroyexport for 41 posted officials who drew no hotel allowances during their stays. A joint audit team led by a Ministry Joint Secretary has already reviewed the matter and submitted its report.
Dr. Hassan urged media outlets to double-check official audit reports and board records before publishing claims about a sensitive national asset also emphasizing that public trust remains vital as the plant prepares to join the national grid.
