Karnataka: India’s nuclear power expansion received a major boost after Kaiga Units 5 & 6 End Shield was successfully unloaded at the project site in Karnataka. The milestone was announced by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL), marking an important step in the construction of the country’s indigenous 700 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs).
The End Shield is one of the first major reactor-core components to reach the site and will play a critical role in the reactor’s operation and safety systems. The development highlights India’s growing capability in indigenous nuclear engineering and clean energy infrastructure.
Key Highlights of Kaiga Units 5 & 6 End Shield
- First End Shield successfully unloaded for Kaiga Units 5 & 6.
- Manufactured by Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Hazira.
- The component weighs approximately 107 tonnes.
- Measures around 9.3 metres in height and width.
- Designed for India’s indigenous 700 MWe PHWR technology.
- Marks another important construction milestone after the First Pour of Concrete (FPC) achieved earlier in 2026.
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What are the Specifications of Kaiga Units 5 & 6 End Shield
| Parameter | Details |
| Component | End Shield |
| Manufacturer | L&T Hazira |
| Weight | 107 tonnes |
| Height & Width | Approx. 9.3 metres |
| Thickness | 0.920 metres |
| Reactor Type | 700 MWe PHWR |
| Project | Kaiga Units 5 & 6 |
How the Massive Component Was Unloaded
NPCIL stated that the complex unloading operation was completed through careful planning and coordination. The operation involved:
- A 500-ton crane
- A 70-ton crane
- A 10-ton chain pulley block
The successful execution demonstrates the engineering expertise involved in handling critical nuclear reactor equipment. The component was unloaded without any reported issues. Based on the official NPCIL update provided in the source image.
Why the End Shield Is Important
The End Shield is a crucial component of a Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR). Its main functions include:
- Providing structural support to coolant channel assemblies.
- Supporting on-power refuelling operations.
- Forming an integral part of the Calandria Vault enclosure.
- Helping maintain reactor safety and operational efficiency.
PHWR technology forms the backbone of India’s indigenous nuclear power programme and is used in several NPCIL reactors across the country.
About Kaiga Units 5 & 6
Kaiga Units 5 & 6 are being developed at the Kaiga Atomic Power Station in Karnataka.
Project Overview
| Item | Details |
| Location | Kaiga, Karnataka |
| Reactor Type | Indigenous PHWR |
| Capacity | 2 × 700 MWe |
| Developer | NPCIL |
| Technology | Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor |
| Status | Under Construction |
The two reactors are part of India’s fleet-mode nuclear expansion programme aimed at increasing clean electricity generation and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
