Kakrapar atomic plant in Gujarat achieves ‘criticality’

The 700 MW nuclear power plant in Gujarat achieved criticality, meaning it reached the normal operating condition of a reactor. It indicates that the plant is now set to generate power.

The Unit-3 of Kakrapar atomic power plant (KAPP-3), located at Kakrapar, Gujarat achieved its first criticality (controlled self-sustaining nuclear fission chain reaction for the first time), an official statement said.

This is a historic development as KAPP-3 is a first of a kind, indigenous 700 MW Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PWHR). It is indigenously designed by Indian scientists and engineers. The components and equipment for the reactor have been manufactured by Indian industries.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated nuclear scientists for this success. In a tweet, the PM said, “Congratulations to our nuclear scientists for achieving criticality of Kakrapar Atomic Power Plant-3! This indigenously designed 700 MWe KAPP-3 reactor is a shining example of Make in India. And a trailblazer for many such future achievements!”