Construction Progresses on Uzbekistan’s First Small Modular Nuclear Power Plant in Farish District: “First Concrete” Pour Set for March 2026

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Uzatom Agency organized a press tour to the construction site of Uzbekistan’s first small modular nuclear power plant (SMR) in the Farish district of Jizzakh region.

Journalists reviewed progress on the strategically important project, which aims to strengthen the country’s energy independence, create new jobs, and support sustainable regional development.

Media representatives visited key areas of the construction site — including the excavation pit for the first reactor unit, where vertical planning has been completed and 27 exploratory boreholes drilled; the construction and installation base, which includes 11 facilities such as two concrete-mixing units (250 m³/h each) and a rebar workshop equipped with modern Chinese machinery; and a workers’ camp for 1,500 personnel with 10 modular buildings and a dining facility under construction.

Currently, 308 specialists and 177 units of equipment (including ten 70-ton dump trucks) are working on-site, with 40 more vehicles expected by the end of the week. The “first concrete” pour is scheduled for March 2026.

Abdijamil Kalmuratov, Director of the State Enterprise “Directorate for NPP Construction”, stated:

“The SMR project is a major step toward energy independence and economic growth. We are following the President-approved schedule, preparing for the first concrete pour in March 2026, and ensuring the highest quality and safety standards.”

Preparatory work is nearing completion, and by November 2025, Uzbek specialists will make up 70% of the workforce. A training center for nuclear industry professionals will also open in Farish.

Environmental expert Erkin Kholmatov emphasized that the project meets international environmental standards:

“We continuously monitor soil, water, and air quality. The small reactor technology reduces carbon emissions, ensuring a sustainable future for Jizzakh region while preserving its natural environment.”

Local residents expressed support for the project. Amirbek Namozov, elder of the Farish district mahalla, said:

“This plant will bring light to our homes, jobs for our youth, and prosperity to our region. We’re proud that Farish is part of this major national project.”

Enter Engineering has been appointed subcontractor for the station’s construction, while Russia’s Rosatom State Corporation serves as the general contractor, overseeing technology, safety standards, and project organization.

“Enter Engineering is one of Uzbekistan’s largest construction firms, equipped with its own vehicle fleet, skilled professionals, and design institutes — fully capable of handling all required works,” — noted Kalmuratov, adding that the subcontractor was selected through a competitive process.

Uzbekistan’s first small modular nuclear power plant marks a milestone in national energy development — drawing young professionals into the nuclear sector and driving modernization of regional infrastructure in Jizzakh.