CHASHMA, (TDI): Pakistan has officially launched the construction of the Chashma Nuclear Power Plant Unit-5 (C-5), a significant milestone in its ongoing collaboration with China to enhance energy security and socio-economic development.
The state-of-the-art project is set to contribute 1,200 MW of clean and cost-effective energy to the national grid, further cementing nuclear power’s role in Pakistan’s energy strategy.
The landmark first concrete pouring ceremony, held on December 30, 2024, was attended by notable dignitaries, including Minister for Planning, Development Ahsan Iqbal, Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong, and Vice President of the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) Zhang Kai.
Other officials from Pakistan’s Strategic Plans Division and the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) also graced the event.
Speaking as the chief guest, Ahsan Iqbal highlighted the Chashma-5 project as a testament to the enduring partnership between Pakistan and China.
“This project reflects the trust and confidence the Chinese leadership has in Pakistan’s economy. It not only strengthens our energy sector but also creates thousands of jobs, paving the way for sustainable economic growth,” he stated.
The project is part of a broader Pak-China collaboration in nuclear energy that began in the 1990s. Pakistan currently operates six nuclear power plants with Chinese assistance, including four units at Chashma (C-1, C-2, C-3, and C-4) and two at Karachi.
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These plants collectively contribute over 3,530 MW of electricity to the national grid, significantly reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.
The addition of Chashma-5 will increase Pakistan’s nuclear energy capacity to 4,760 MW, providing a reliable baseload energy source and addressing the country’s growing power demands.
Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the critical role of nuclear energy in Pakistan’s energy mix, describing it as a clean, cost-effective, and dependable solution.
Pakistan Tech Economy
He also underscored the government’s focus on transforming Pakistan into a techno-economy, aligning with the 5Es National Economic Transformation Plan. This plan prioritizes exports, E-Pakistan initiatives, equity and empowerment, environmental sustainability, and energy infrastructure.
“This transition to sustainable energy is pivotal for Pakistan’s future. Nuclear energy offers a dependable solution, with plants capable of operating continuously for up to 18 months after refueling.
Safety remains our top priority, and Pakistan’s impeccable track record in nuclear facility operations demonstrates our commitment to global standards,” Iqbal said.
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The minister further lauded the professionalism of Pakistan’s scientists and engineers in the nuclear sector, calling for joint ventures with China to design and produce nuclear power plants for the international market.
“Such collaborations can position Pakistan and China as global leaders in nuclear energy solutions, unlocking new economic opportunities,” he added.
China’s Ambassador Jiang Zaidong reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to Pakistan’s energy and infrastructure development, terming the Chashma-5 project a symbol of the robust Pakistan-China friendship.
Symbol of Pak-China Collaboration
The project is a key component of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), itself a flagship initiative of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Minister Iqbal described CPEC as a transformative platform for regional connectivity and development.
“CPEC is not just a collection of projects; it is a symbol of the unbreakable bond between Pakistan and China, fostering prosperity and transforming lives,” he said.
President Xi Jinping has also highlighted the broader goals of CPEC as a model for international development. Minister Iqbal noted that Chashma-5 aligns with Pakistan’s National Economic Transformation Plan, which prioritizes green and affordable energy solutions alongside technological and economic growth.
