Gorakhpur nuclear project delayed due to soil issues and regulatory reviews

The first two units of the Gorakhpur Haryana Anu Vidyut Pariyojana (GHAVP), originally approved in 2014, are now expected to be completed by 2031–32, according to a statement by the Department of Atomic Energy in response to a Lok Sabha query on 6 August 2025.

The GHAVP-1 and GHAVP-2 units, each with a capacity of 700 MW, have faced significant construction delays. While excavation began in 2018, the site’s soil characteristics, specifically the absence of hard rock and the discovery of weak soil zones, required additional ground improvement measures. A specialised consultant was brought in to investigate and recommend remediation steps. These recommendations are currently under review by the nuclear regulatory authority.

Due to this process, the construction of the main nuclear island has been delayed. However, procurement and construction in other areas have continued. Key equipment has been ordered, some delivered, and major civil and mechanical packages have been awarded and are underway.

The government stated that corrective measures are being implemented to address delays. These include advanced procurement of long-lead equipment, closer monitoring of project milestones, and regular coordination with vendors. The main island construction will proceed once ground improvement works are completed and regulatory approval is granted.

No direct accountability mechanisms for the delays were detailed in the statement. The government attributed the postponement primarily to unforeseen soil conditions at the site.