Cairo: The Nuclear Power Plants Authority (NPPA) has issued a response to a recent report by POLITICO regarding the El Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant project. According to State Information Service Egypt, the NPPA criticized the report for presenting an inaccurate portrayal of the project's safety measures and for drawing conclusions without proper technical context. The NPPA argued that the report was influenced by broader political narratives.
Both the NPPA and the Russian general contractor received inquiries from the POLITICO journalist before the article's publication. However, the NPPA decided not to respond, citing the article's lack of balance and objectivity. The Russian contractor had already addressed the allegations with a detailed response. The NPPA emphasized that the project is being executed under intergovernmental agreements between Egypt and Russia, with oversight from relevant authorities, including the Egyptian Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Authority (ENRRA).
The El Dabaa project is recognized as the world's largest nuclear power plant construction endeavor, involving complex engineering, a multi-level quality control system, and collaboration among thousands of specialists. The NPPA assures that the project adheres to international nuclear safety standards, with continuous inspections and corrective measures as part of the regular implementation process.
The project follows strict regulatory procedures, with all construction activities subject to review by the ENRRA. Safety assessments are based on comprehensive systems rather than personal evaluations. The NPPA highlighted the project's management system, which encompasses industrial safety, occupational health, and construction quality.
Security at the El Dabaa site is stringently regulated, with measures to control access and prevent unauthorized activities. The NPPA noted that Egypt's nuclear program is supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which has commended the project's infrastructure and preparedness. The IAEA continues to provide oversight and support through regular reviews and partnerships.
The NPPA maintains that the El Dabaa project is independently regulated and continuously assessed by national and international bodies. The recent completion of an IAEA mission affirmed Egypt's robust regulatory framework for nuclear safety. The project continues to progress with significant milestones, such as the installation of critical equipment for reactor units, underscoring its alignment with international safety and quality standards.
The NPPA concluded by urging media outlets and social media users to rely on verified information from official sources, highlighting the importance of distinguishing between technical facts and unfounded claims regarding strategic projects like El Dabaa.