Karandikars & Associates

18th December 2023

1. The Unit 4 of Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP 4 – 700 MW) achieved the important milestone of Criticality (start of controlled fission chain reaction) for the first time on December 17, 2023 (Sunday) at 01:17 hrs
2. Criticality was achieved after meeting all the stipulations of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), which had issued clearance after a rigorous review of safety of the plant systems
3. KAPP-4 is the second in the series of sixteen indigenous Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR) of 700 MW each being set up in the country
4. After the first criticality, several experiments / tests will be conducted in KAPP-4 and the power level raised in steps, in line with the clearances of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), ultimately culminating in operation of the unit at full power
5. KAPP 3&4 (2X700 MW) are located at Kakrapar in Surat district of Gujarat, adjacent to the existing reactors KAPS1&2 (2X220 MW). These indigenous PHWRs have advanced safety features and are among the safest reactors inthe world. While these reactors have been designed, constructed, commissioned and operated by NPCIL, the supply of equipment and execution of contracts have been by Indian industries / companies, and thus the true reflection of the spirit of AtmaNirbhar Bharat
6. NPCIL presently operates 23 reactors with a total capacity of 7,480 MW and has nine units (including KAPP-4) with a capacity of 7,500 MW under construction. In addition, 10 more reactors with a total capacity of 7,000 MW are in pre-project activities. These are expected to be completed progressively by 2031-32

Read:

1. KAPP-3 Attains Criticality (23rd July 2020)