Though Pakistan has been facing an energy shortage for quite some time, progress on securing energy sources has been at a speed that is next to zilch. Focus on energy security is crucial in staying afloat in this rapidly progressing industrial environment. Pakistan’s finalising a price formula with Turkmenistan for the TAPI gas project seems like a feat that happens only once in a blue moon. Still, this is one step that is commendable.
But, digging deep, the project is fraught with technicalities that could cause further delays. Firstly, it won’t deliver gas to any country before the end of 2016, which would only add to the problems our country is facing; secondly, the security in Afghanistan may not be good enough by that time where this being the only route, the project could be delayed indefinitely; thirdly, transit fee have yet to be finalised though this should not be an issue; fourthly, the project pushes IP, formerly IPI, to the backburner, which is not a good thing. Despite these facts, the project is a useful alternate solution for Pakistan as the other more feasible one, IP project, is facing some external pressures. The US, in an attempt to arm-twist Pakistan to make a deal with the Taliban, is pushing for TAPI over the IP even though the latter could deliver results in a mere two-year timeframe.
The idea that the project should have the Americans’ blessings is what’s making all the difference. Pakistan should go ahead with the project only if the Afghan authorities provide security and performance guarantees, as Pakistan has given to the Iranians on the IP project. On a relevant note, Pakistan must reinitiate efforts to cut a deal with Tehran for a lower price. After all, we should decide for our energy security on our terms. Another factor that may play either way is the Indian participation in the TAPI project. They left the IP project after the US patronised them with a nuclear deal. They may do the same again. Pakistan should iron out kinks like these before committing to such an important project.