Shehbaz Sharif Marks Chashma-5 Nuclear Dome Placement, Cites Energy Security

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attended a ceremony on Tuesday marking the dome placement of the Chashma-5 Nuclear Power Plant near Mianwali. The weather-sealed dome installation signals the end of civil works and the start of internal construction and installation.

The premier described the project as a promise of clean, reliable and affordable electricity for Pakistan. He said nuclear power would reduce dependence on imported fuels and international price fluctuations while ensuring stable supply for factories, hospitals, educational institutions and households.

“This project will turn dreams into hope and hope into reality one day soon.”

Shehbaz recalled his July 2023 groundbreaking pledge that Pakistan would not wait for anyone but would build its own future through hard work and untiring efforts. He noted that the dome was installed less than three and a half years later, ahead of schedule.

The government press release called the progress a major milestone for the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission. The C-5 plant will have a generation capacity of 1,200 megawatts and is expected to begin electricity generation in September 2030.

Shehbaz stressed that as a climate-vulnerable country, Pakistan has a responsibility to pursue energy solutions that support economic goals while protecting the environment. He expressed confidence that the project would be commissioned ahead of time.

The prime minister also highlighted the role of the armed forces under Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir in ensuring security and stability. He said no country could build a prosperous future without first safeguarding its present.

Shehbaz thanked engineers, technicians and workers from Pakistan and China who worked on the project. He called the dome placement a proud moment for the country.