ISLAMABAD: The World Bank’s decision to restart the CASA-1000 project in Afghanistan is a welcoming development which will promote cooperation and sustainable development in the region.
Central Asia-South Asia Electricity Transmission and Trade Project (CASA-1000) is a $1.2 billion regional power project aimed at fostering connectivity and revolutionizing the energy landscape among Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.
The World Bank has announced that it has agreed to restart the project amid concerns among the participating countries that they risk $1billion of stranded assets.
The project aims to facilitate the transmission of clean energy from Tajikistan, Kyrgyz Republic, to Pakistan via Afghanistan.
Earlier, the Government of Pakistan had also warmly welcomed the World Bank’s decision terming a pivotal step forward in regional energy collaboration.
The World Bank board approved the project in March 2014 with financing from the International Development Association (IDA).
Restarting CASA-1000 will bring energy security by transferring surplus hydropower from Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to Afghanistan and Pakistan, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and ushering in a new era of transformation.
The CASA-1000 project in Afghanistan was paused due to political upheaval in Afghanistan in August 2021, after completing about 18% of tower construction and delivering nearly all materials needed for the project.
Despite the pause of the project in Afghanistan, other participating nations continued with the implementation of CASA-1000 and construction is nearly completed in Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.
CASA-1000 focuses on connectivity and energy
CASA-1000’s focus on connectivity and energy access promises economic growth and stability in Afghanistan and neighboring countries. Integrating power grids and exporting hydropower electricity fosters cooperation and prosperity.
Involvement of international consultants and third-party monitoring demonstrates a commitment to project success and quality standards. Leveraging external expertise ensures confidence in CASA-1000’s delivery of benefits.
Afghan authorities’ cooperation and willingness to explore collaboration opportunities are positive signs. Engaging locally and working together will overcome obstacles and unlock CASA-1000’s full potential for regional progress.
Resumption of CASA-1000 demonstrates a renewed commitment and unwavering collective resolve to overcome challenges, forging stronger bonds of friendship and partnership across borders.
