The first country in Southeast Asia to have a nuclear reactor
Which country in Southeast Asia had the first nuclear reactor? What are the environmental and economic impacts of nuclear reactors?
Vietnam - The first country in Southeast Asia to have a nuclear reactor
The first nuclear reactor in Southeast Asia was built in Da Lat, Vietnam. The project was started by the US in April 1961 and completed in December 1962, with the architecture designed by Ngo Viet Thu. The nuclear reactor reached its first critical state on February 26, 1963 and officially went into operation on March 3, 1963.
Initially, the nuclear reactor was used mainly for research, training and radioisotope production. However, by 1968, the reactor was decommissioned.
After the country was reunified, with support from the Soviet Union, the nuclear reactor was restored and its capacity increased. The reactor resumed operation on March 20, 1984, with a capacity of 500 kW, double the previous capacity.
During more than 40 years of operation, the Da Lat nuclear reactor has operated stably and safely without any recorded incidents affecting humans or the environment.
Nuclear reactors have contributed significantly to scientific research, production of isotopes for medical and industrial purposes, as well as training of human resources in the field of atomic energy.
Currently, besides Vietnam, other countries in the region such as the Philippines and Indonesia are also expressing interest in developing nuclear energy as a clean and sustainable energy source.
Impact of nuclear reactor on Dalat tourism
The nuclear reactor in Da Lat has long been operating safely, contributing to the development of science and technology without affecting public health or the environment.
In 2014, when there was a proposal to build a new reactor in the Vietnam-Russia Atomic Technology Research Center project, some leaders of Lam Dong province expressed concerns.
These concerns are not about safety but mainly related to the tourism image of Da Lat - a city famous for its fresh climate and peaceful nature. The construction of a large nuclear research center could raise concerns among tourists and affect urban development planning.
However, experts say a modern nuclear center is not only safe but can also promote scientific and technological development, bring economic benefits and enhance the local status.
To harmonize development and conservation, new reactor construction projects need to be carefully evaluated to ensure no negative impact on the environment as well as the sustainable development orientation and unique image of Da Lat city.