MINSK, 2 August (BelTA) - Mounting of the shell of the first unit reactor of the Belarusian nuclear power plant has been suspended. Works on other sites proceed in a routine mode, Belarus' Deputy Energy Minister Mikhail Mikhadyuk told media on 1 August, BelTA has learned.
“Construction and assembly works are in progress on more than 110 sites. They proceed on schedule. The mounting of the shell of the reactor has been suspended. This decision was taken by the customer and the regulatory body immediately after the accident,” Mikhail Mikhadyuk said.
The Deputy Minister also talked about the options. “Only two scenarios are possible: either we use the same shell once its safety is confirmed. Or we replace it. There are no any other options. But now it is up to experts. Our priority is the unconditional security of the nuclear power plant,” Mikhail Mikhadyuk said.
The reactor shell is currently being examined by the general constructor of the nuclear plant at OKB Gidropress, Rosatom's main testing organization Central Research and Development Institute of Engineering, the general contractor Atomstroyexport. The relevant materials are sent to the customer – the Belarusian Nuclear Power Plant Company. After the study they will be submitted to the regulator, i.e. Gosatomnadzor (Nuclear and Radiation Safety Department of the Belarusian Emergencies Ministry).
