Thousands of Russians arrive in Hungary to work on the Paks II project
The Paks II project is moving forward, with plans for a complex to accommodate 5,000 workers to support its growing Russian workforce. This has raised questions and concerns about the arrival of Russian professionals in Hungary.
Paks II project in progress
According to Economx, the Paks II project is advancing steadily, with significant developments currently underway. In the initial phase, a complex to house 5,000 workers will be constructed. There have been concerns about the city’s capacity to handle this influx of workers; however, officials have reassured that the increase in population will not overwhelm the town of Paks.
The next steps
Péter Rákóczi, Communications Director of Paks II Ltd, has outlined several key construction milestones, including the completion of a diaphragm wall and soil consolidation to a depth of 23 metres, particularly under units 5 and 6. Additional progress includes the completion of a concrete plant complex and the ongoing construction of a large steel products workshop. A significant development in August was the arrival of the 730-tonne melting trap, while the reactor vessel is still being manufactured in Russia.
Where will the Russian workers live?
The Paks II project continues to expand, with the current workforce of 1,000 expected to rise to 8,000-10,000 at peak times. Consequently, the issue of their accommodation has become a hot topic. Péter Rákóczi stated:
“They will be accommodated in the immediate vicinity of the work area. This island-like zone will provide all the essential infrastructure for the workers, from catering to healthcare services and recreation (e.g. sports fields). As such, the thousands of workers will not directly burden the city. Discussions are already underway between the authorities regarding the construction of the first phase of a complex to house five thousand people.”
A facility for 300 workers was completed last autumn, ensuring smooth progress for the project. Tatjána Kern, who coordinates Russian personnel for Rosatom, assists Russian workers with settling in. She notes that most of the workers are experienced professionals who typically return home after construction. However, when older professionals arrive in Hungary, they are likely to bring their families. This has led to speculation about whether a Russian school will be established near Paks in the future.
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