The huge gap between demand and supply of power is a major obstacle on the way to accelerating the country's pace of economic development. Successive governments have failed to handle the issue efficiently and the situation has turned critical. So power generation at a cheaper cost using the nuclear technology could indeed be a big leap forward.

However, successful use of nuclear technology will depend on a number of factors. A team of experts has to be appointed to study the issue in detail. We have qualified professionals in this field who will get an opportunity to prove themselves once a nuclear reactor is put in place. Then we have sort of space constraint in an overpopulated country, which will make it doubly necessary to take the precautions and safety measures to prevent mishaps. Even in the United States and the former Soviet Union nuclear plant accidents took place with disastrous consequences. The memories of Chernobyl are still fresh in our mind. We have to upgrade our maintenance and supervision methods to internationally acceptable levels to be able to safely run nuclear plants. The environmentalists' concern must be duly addressed.

That said, the global quest for power at an affordable price has pushed the developed and developing countries to look for alternate sources of energy and, without question, nuclear technology has so far been found to be the most cost-effective one.

So, power generation through nuclear reactors is ideal for Bangladesh, but the whole exercise must be based on procurement of the most modern equipment and appointment of a highly reliable and competent team of engineers and technicians. The opportunity is a test for our preparedness to meet the challenges of the future world where peaceful use of nuclear technology will play a vital role.