Pakistani nuclear plant leaks

A seven-hour emergency was imposed in Pakistan after heavy water leaked from a feeder pipe to the reactor of the 137-megawatt Karachi Nuclear Power Plant.

Fortunately, no radiation or damage has been reported.

"The plant was already shut down since October 5 and the leakage started during maintenance checks," said Tariq Rashid, a plant spokesman.

He said the emergency was imposed at the plant immediately after the leak and the affected area was isolated. The emergency was lifted seven hours later, after the leak was brought under control.

"The situation is completely under control and no damage or radiation has been reported, though it will slightly delay the reopening of the plant," Rashid said. He said the plant will be operational again in 4-5 weeks.

KANUPP supplies 80 megawatts of power to the Karachi Electric Supply Co, the city's main power utility.

The plant completed its 30-year design life in 2002 and underwent upgrades to extend operations.

"Currently it is well designed to work till at least 2015," said Rashid.

The full story is available at Reuters.